Establishes an intervenor support program to provide compensation for an intervenor who makes a substantial contribution to a proceeding resulting in a decision favorable to the interest of utility consumers.
Impact
The proposed bill will specifically create an intervenor compensation special fund within the PUC, from which financial awards will be disbursed. The effects of this bill could promote greater engagement in regulatory proceedings, particularly from those who previously could not afford the costs associated with effective participation. By allowing compensations that align with substantial contributions to the decision-making process, the program aims to ensure that the voices of residential utility consumers and local government entities are adequately represented.
Summary
S0378 aims to establish an intervenor support program that will provide compensation for reasonable advocate's fees, expert witness fees, and other associated costs incurred by intervenors who contribute significantly to proceedings of the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) and Energy Facility Siting Board. This legislation is designed to enhance the participation of consumers and local entities in regulatory processes, with the intention of promoting consumer interests, particularly in utilities and energy matters.
Contention
However, the bill raises potential points of contention, especially regarding the assessment and approval process for compensation grants. Critics may argue that the bill's criteria for determining 'substantial contribution' might lead to subjective interpretations, resulting in unequal access to funds. Additionally, the establishment of a special fund funded by public utilities could lead to concerns about the financial implications for the utilities and how those costs might ultimately affect consumer rates. There are also concerns regarding ensuring that the interventions provided enhance rather than complicate the regulatory proceedings.
Further_details
In terms of implementation, the bill outlines a structured approach for individuals and local government entities to apply for funding, requiring transparency in financial allocation. This effort is further bolstered by mandates for the commission to develop educational resources and outreach programs to inform potential grantees. Given that this initiative is set to take effect in September 2025, it provides a significant opportunity for future discussions in the legislature regarding the efficacy and execution of the program.
Gives PUC jurisdiction rather than division of approval petition/mandates public hearing/allows intervention by interested parties/provides for appeal of decision.
Establishes thermal energy networks network infrastructure by any public utility company that provides electric/natural gas distribution to maximize cost-effective investments deemed in the public interest by the public utilities commission (PUC).
Establishes the first time home buyer savings program act. Allows modifications to federal adjusted gross income for $50,000 in contributions and $150,000 of interest and dividends included in federal adjusted gross income.
Establishes the first time home buyer savings program act. Allows modifications to federal adjusted gross income for $50,000 in contributions and $150,000 of interest and dividends included in federal adjusted gross income.
Amends several provisions relative the powers and duties of the PUC and requires the submission by utilities of integrated distribution system plans identifying solutions to reduce greenhouse gases.
Increases the membership of the energy facility siting board from 3 to 5 members and would revise the process of energy facility siting to mandate inclusion/participation of the host community of the facility as well as of the public and cities and towns.
Increases the membership of the energy facility siting board from 3 to 5 members and would revise the process of energy facility siting to mandate inclusion/participation of the host community of the facility as well as of the public and cities and towns.
Establishes a task force managed by the children’s cabinet to develop recommendations to improve access to early intervention and early childhood special education services.
Establishes a task force managed by the children's cabinet to develop recommendations to improve access to early intervention and early childhood special education services.
Establishes an intervenor support program to provide compensation for an intervenor who makes a substantial contribution to a proceeding resulting in a decision favorable to the interest of utility consumers.