Illinois 2023-2024 Regular Session

Illinois House Bill HB5459

Introduced
2/9/24  
Introduced
2/9/24  
Refer
2/28/24  
Refer
2/9/24  
Report Pass
4/2/24  
Refer
2/28/24  
Engrossed
4/17/24  
Report Pass
4/2/24  
Refer
4/24/24  
Engrossed
4/17/24  
Refer
4/30/24  
Refer
4/24/24  
Refer
4/30/24  
Report Pass
5/9/24  
Report Pass
5/9/24  
Enrolled
5/16/24  
Enrolled
5/16/24  
Chaptered
7/19/24  
Chaptered
7/19/24  

Caption

UTIL-WATER USAGE DATA

Impact

The introduction of HB 5459 is expected to have significant implications for state laws regulating public utilities. By mandating public utilities to transparently report their water usage data, the bill aims to encourage more responsible water management practices. Additionally, it may lead to increased scrutiny of utilities' operations, as access to this data could allow regulators and consumers to hold companies accountable for excessive or inefficient water use. This legislative change could potentially further impact policies surrounding water conservation efforts and environmental sustainability in the state.

Summary

House Bill 5459 is a legislative measure aimed at enhancing the transparency and accountability of public utility companies regarding their water usage data. The bill amends the Public Utilities Act, focusing specifically on the requirement for public utilities to maintain and report accurate water usage data. The goal of this law is to ensure that stakeholders, including consumers and regulators, have access to reliable information concerning water resources. Proponents argue that improved data reporting will enable better decision-making and facilitate effective management of water resources in the state.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 5459 appears to be largely positive among advocates for environmental sustainability and consumer rights. Supporters believe that the bill represents a proactive step toward enhancing the accountability of utilities in their resource management. However, there are mixed feelings among utility companies, who may view the increased reporting requirements as an additional regulatory burden. Nonetheless, the overall discussion seems to favor the bill, emphasizing the importance of protecting water resources in the context of climate change and population growth.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB 5459 relate to the feasibility and potential costs of implementing the required data reporting. Critics, including representatives from the utility sector, have raised concerns about the financial implications and operational challenges associated with enhanced reporting guidelines. Additionally, there is a debate regarding the balance between regulatory oversight and operational flexibility for utilities. Opponents suggest that while transparency is important, overly stringent requirements could stifle innovation and increase costs for consumers in the long run.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

IL SB1341

Water and water rights; usage; metering procedures; reporting. Effective date.

IL HB0492

Drinking Water Utilities Amendments

IL HB1232

UTILITY-WATER/SEWER REFERENDUM

IL HB5157

UTILITIES-WATER ACQUISITION

IL SB0273

Financing of water and wastewater utility assets.

IL HB535

Relative to defining the role of the public utilities commission.

IL SB19

Public Utilities Commission: duties and responsibilities: governance.

IL HB4090

RESIDENTIAL-PUB UTIL SERVICES

IL SB500

Energy: usage data.

IL HB71

Relating to the establishment of certain water and sewer utility rates and the transfer of certain functions from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality to the Public Utility Commission of Texas.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.