Bill > HB610

This bill restructures the Residential Ratepayers Advisory Board by repealing and reenacting the existing law, RSA 363:28-a, to clarify its composition and responsibilities. The board will now consist of nine public members: three appointed by the Speaker of the House representing residential ratepayers, the elderly, and the general public; three appointed by the Senate President representing residential ratepayers, the disabled, and environmental concerns; and three appointed by the Governor and Council representing low-income individuals, small business owners, and residents of low-income housing. These members will serve three-year terms without compensation, though they will be reimbursed for mileage. The board's primary objective is to oversee the Office of the Consumer Advocate, ensuring it focuses on providing safe, reliable, and affordable utility service to residential customers while promoting customer freedom. The board will meet at least quarterly, receive administrative support from the Consumer Advocate's office, and advise the Consumer Advocate on matters concerning residential ratepayers, with specific exceptions for certain local exchange carriers. Furthermore, the board will play a crucial role in the reappointment process of the Consumer Advocate, recommending whether to reappoint the current advocate or recommending three new candidates if reappointment is not pursued. The board also gains the authority to recommend the removal of the Consumer Advocate to the Governor and Council for failure to perform their duties, following a hearing.

Government Affairs

https://gc.nh.gov/bill_Status/billinfo.aspx?id=353&inflect=2