Public utilities: public service commission; appointment of members to the Michigan public service commission; modify. Amends sec. 1 of 1939 PA 3 (MCL 460.1).
Impact
The bill aims to modernize the management of public utilities by abolishing the previous Michigan Public Utilities Commission and transitioning all powers to the newly formed Public Service Commission. The restructured commission will address various state concerns, such as rate increases and energy conservation programs. By instituting more stringent requirements for appointments and increasing oversight for utilities, the bill is positioned to enhance accountability and service standards, potentially resulting in lower utility rates for consumers coupled with improved service reliability.
Summary
House Bill 5311 seeks to amend the regulation framework governing public and certain private utilities in Michigan. This bill proposes the establishment of the Michigan Public Service Commission, outlining its composition, powers, and appointment processes. Under this legislation, the newly formed commission will have five members, ensuring political diversity by restricting the number of members from the same party. Appointed by the governor with consent from the state senate, these members will be tasked with overseeing utility operations, ensuring compliance with state laws, and addressing public interests in energy provision.
Contention
Despite its intentions, House Bill 5311 has sparked debates among legislators and stakeholders. Proponents argue that the reformation will lead to a more efficient regulatory framework. However, there are fears that centralizing regulatory authority may limit local input in utility matters, adversely affecting tailored community needs. Critics are also sensitive to the potential for partisan influences in the commission's appointments, which could lead to regulatory disparities in public utility operations across different regions of the state.
Public utilities: public service commission; election of members to the Michigan public service commission; provide for. Amends secs. 1 & 2 of 1939 PA 3 (MCL 460.1 & 460.2). TIE BAR WITH: SB 0298'23
Public utilities: public service commission; regulation of utilities by the public service commission; modify. Amends sec. 6t of 1939 PA 3 (MCL 460.6t).
Public utilities: public service commission; electric vehicle charging station operators; exempt from certain public utility requirements. Amends title & secs. 10g, 10h & 10q of 1939 PA 3 (MCL 460.10g et seq.).
Public utilities: public service commission; public service commission mandate and factors for decision making; revise. Amends secs. 6, 6a, 6m, 6t & 11 of 1939 PA 3 (MCL 460.6 et seq.) & adds sec. 6aa. TIE BAR WITH: HB 4759'23, HB 4761'23
Public utilities: public service commission; calculation of costs of renewable energy; provide for. Amends 1939 PA 3 (MCL 460.1 - 460.11) by adding sec. 6y.
Public utilities: other; certain money spent by electric or natural gas utilities; require to be reported to the public service commission. Amends 1939 PA 3 (MCL 460.1 - 460.11) by adding sec. 6aa.
Public utilities: public service commission; certain provisions regarding rate cases and integrated resource plans; eliminate. Amends secs. 6a, 6m & 6t of 1939 PA 3 (MCL 460.6a et seq.); adds sec. 6x & repeals sec. 6aa of 1939 PA 3 (MCL 460.6aa).
Elections: other; election of members to the Michigan public service commission; provide for. Amends sec. 699 of 1954 PA 116 (MCL 168.699) & adds ch. VIA. TIE BAR WITH: SB 0297'23
Human services: services or financial assistance; Michigan energy assistance act; modify. Amends sec. 9t of 1939 PA 3 (MCL 460.9t). TIE BAR WITH: SB 0881'24
A resolution to affirm the Governor’s proclamation on workplace safety and call on the Governor, the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity, the Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration, and all those responsible for the safety of Michigan’s workers to do everything in their power to decrease workplace deaths and make worksites safer for all hardworking Michiganders.
Higher education: governing boards; gubernatorial appointment of regents, trustees, or board of governors for University of Michigan, Michigan State University, and Wayne State University; require. Amends sec. 5, art. VIII of the state constitution.
Economic development: other; strategic advisory board; create, and provide for the development of strategic plans. Amends 1984 PA 270 (MCL 125.2001 - 125.2094) by adding secs. 9a & 9b. TIE BAR WITH: SB 0213'25
Law enforcement: other; certain functions of the Michigan commission on law enforcement standards; move regulation to the department of licensing and regulatory affairs. Amends sec. 3 of 1965 PA 203 (MCL 28.603).