Massachusetts House Bill H3114

Massachusetts 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/16/23
• Refer: 2/16/23
• Refer: 7/8/24

Caption

Relative to rate fairness for water and sewer ratepayers under the jurisdiction of the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority

Impact

The enactment of HB 3114 would require that municipalities undergo audits by the Office of the State Auditor at least once every three years. These audits would encompass a comprehensive review of all chargebacks and operational expenses, with a particular emphasis on verifying that the costs allocated to consumer charges pertain directly to the services provided. This change is anticipated to promote fairer rates for consumers, as it intends to eliminate any unnecessary or deceptive billing practices that may inflate costs without justification.

Summary

House Bill 3114, introduced by Representative Jeffrey Rosario Turco, aims to ensure fair practices in the assessment and charges associated with water and sewer services under the jurisdiction of the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA). The bill proposes mandatory audits of cities and towns regarding the costs they charge consumers, ensuring that these costs reflect only those actually incurred in the provision of water and sewer services. This legislative effort seeks to increase transparency and accountability in how municipalities handle the billing of these essential services, which has been a growing concern among ratepayers.

Contention

While the bill is largely seen as a positive step towards consumer protection, it may face opposition from municipalities concerned about the implications of additional regulatory oversight and the resource burden of compliance. Some local authorities might resist the push for audits, arguing that they can manage billing practices independently. The balance between state oversight and local autonomy could emerge as a contentious issue as this bill progresses through the legislative process, setting the stage for a broader debate on ratepayer protections versus local governmental control.