Mississippi Senate Bill SB2789

Mississippi 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/17/22
• Refer: 1/17/22
• Failed: 2/1/22

Caption

Public Service Commission; remove from the porvisions of the Mississippi Budget Transparency and Simplification Act.

Impact

The removal of the appropriations requirement may lead to a significant shift in how the PSC operates financially. It could enhance their ability to collect user fees and manage funds directly related to their operational costs. The intention behind this change is to streamline the funding process, reducing dependence on the state legislature for resource allocation. However, this autonomy may also raise concerns about oversight and accountability, as the PSC would have more leeway in budgeting without direct legislative controls.

Summary

Senate Bill 2789 aims to amend various sections of the Mississippi Code to change the funding structure of the Mississippi Public Service Commission (PSC). The bill removes the requirement that the PSC be funded through appropriations from the State General Fund, which currently dictates how expenses are covered. This change is expected to grant the PSC greater financial autonomy and flexibility in managing its resources, potentially allowing for more responsive regulation of the utilities under its purview.

Contention

The discussions surrounding SB2789 may highlight tensions regarding local versus state control in regulatory finances. Supporters of the amendment argue that this flexibility will improve operational efficiencies and lead to better governance in utility regulations. Opponents may cite concerns about potential overreach or a lack of accountability for how funds are utilized by the PSC, advocating for continued legislative oversight to ensure that utility regulation remains in the public interest.