Bill > SB00318

This bill proposes significant changes to the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA), a state agency responsible for overseeing utility services. The bill aims to increase transparency, accountability, and legislative oversight by implementing several key reforms. Specifically, the bill would separate PURA from the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, requiring that any vacancies on the authority be filled within 90 days of becoming open. It would also limit authority members to a maximum of three terms and prohibit the authority from adopting policies or programs that impact utility rates without first obtaining consent from the General Assembly. Additionally, the bill mandates more frequent rate adjustment analyses, requires PURA to create and update a monthly public dashboard displaying unpaid utility bills on its website, and compels the authority to publish an easily understandable fiscal analysis of any rate case before making a final decision. These provisions are designed to enhance public understanding of utility regulation, ensure more timely appointments, prevent prolonged leadership, and provide greater legislative control over utility rate decisions.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&bill_num=SB00318&which_year=2025