HB3179: Relating to public utilities.

Legislative Summary

Tells the PUC to look at the economic impact of a proposed rate or schedule of rates if the rates lead to certain revenue results. (Flesch Readability Score: 63.0). Directs the Public Utility Commission to consider the cumulative economic impact of a proposed rate or schedule of rates on a public utility's ratepayers if the proposed rate or schedule of rates will result in an increase of the public utility's revenue in this state by 2.5 percent or more. Modifies the commission's general powers to give the commission broad discretion in setting rates. Authorizes the commission to adjust rates to mitigate or phase in an increase in rates if the increase would affect the ability of customers to maintain adequate utility services or could materially affect the economy of the state. Authorizes a public utility, upon approval by the commission, to issue bonds and securitize debt for costs and expenses incurred or to be incurred by the public utility associated with capital investments that are approved by the commission. Requires a public utility that provides electricity or gas services to provide and make public a visual representation of cost categories included in the public utility's residential customer rates for the preceding calendar year. Requires a public utility to provide and make public a quarterly report on any rate adjustments the public utility expects within the next 12 months.