New Hampshire Senate Bill SB236

New Hampshire 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/23/25
• Refer: 1/23/25
• Report Pass: 3/7/25
• Engrossed: 3/28/25
• Refer: 3/28/25
• Report Pass: 4/23/25
• Enrolled: 6/16/25
• Chaptered: 6/24/25
• Passed: 6/24/25

Caption

Relative to transferring control of the Electric Assistance Program to the department of energy.

Impact

The legislation involves amendments to existing statutes, specifically RSA 369-B and RSA 374-F, to redefine the roles of the involved agencies and clarify the processes for administering the electric assistance program. This change is notable as it consolidates authority over low-income assistance programs within the Department of Energy, allowing for greater operational flexibility in adapting benefit levels and program structures in response to changing needs. Additionally, the bill establishes guidelines for potential modifications to funding allocations based on the performance and sustainability of the program's finances.

Summary

Senate Bill 236 aims to transfer control of the Electric Assistance Program from the Public Utilities Commission to the Department of Energy in New Hampshire. This transfer is designed to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the program, which provides financial assistance to low-income customers for their electric bills. The bill is presented as a request from the Department of Energy seeking more direct control over the management of this critical support program.

Contention

While proponents of SB 236 argue that transferring control to the Department of Energy will streamline processes and improve efficiency for low-income assistance, there may be concerns regarding how this shift could impact oversight and accountability mechanisms previously held by the Public Utilities Commission. Critics may express worries that this centralization could lead to less transparency or diminished responsiveness to the needs of vulnerable populations, thereby complicating the delivery of essential services to those most in need.