Preventing public water and sewer utilities from prohibiting customer from constructing, installing, or maintaining connection to public utility
Impact
The bill modifies existing provisions within the West Virginia Code, specifically §24-3-2, emphasizing the role of the Public Service Commission in overseeing these activities. It requires any customer planning to connect to a public utility to submit their plans for approval, ensuring that they comply with standards while providing them with the opportunity to negotiate any undue restrictions that may be perceived as discriminatory. This is expected to foster a more customer-friendly environment while maintaining safety and utility integrity.
Summary
Senate Bill 273 aims to address the rights of customers in connecting to public water and sewer utilities in West Virginia. Specifically, the bill prevents public utilities from prohibiting customers from constructing, installing, or maintaining the connections necessary for receiving service, as long as certain conditions are met. This regulatory change is designed to enhance customer access to utility services and ensure that individuals and contractors can undertake necessary infrastructure work without facing undue barriers from utility providers.
Sentiment
Overall, the sentiment surrounding SB273 appears to be supportive among consumer advocacy groups, who see it as a victory for customer rights. Proponents argue that the bill empowers customers to take control of their utility connections, promoting self-reliance and facilitating better service access. However, there could also be concerns from the utility providers regarding potential impact on their operational standards and asset protection as they may feel this bill may impose undue requirements on them.
Contention
Despite the positive reception from consumer advocates, some points of contention may arise regarding the implementation of the bill. Public utilities might express concerns over the loss of control in managing connections and ensuring safety through their established procedures. The requirement for public oversight by the Public Service Commission may be viewed by some utilities as an additional layer of bureaucracy that complicates their operations. Ultimately, the bill points to an ongoing debate between promoting accessibility for customers and ensuring that utility providers can manage their services effectively.
Relating to the statutory time frames for public service commission resolution of complaints against locally rate regulated water and wastewater utilities
To require larger municipally owned public water and wastewater utilities to pass rates to meet the same standards as utilities regulated under Chapter 24 of the Code