Bill > HB984

This bill modifies Maryland's public utilities law to apply specific rate proceeding provisions to electric cooperatives. The bill requires the Public Service Commission (PSC) to follow a detailed process when an electric cooperative proposes a new rate. If the PSC suspends a proposed rate, it must promptly initiate proceedings to determine if additional revenues are needed for the electric cooperative to maintain its existing debt service coverage ratio or fair rate of return. The bill mandates that the PSC serve all previous proceeding parties with the suspension order, require the electric cooperative to publish a display advertisement about the proposal, and conduct a public hearing. The proceedings must account for revenues, expenses, and rate base consistent with the previous base rate proceeding, and exclude consideration of increases in rate of return or changes in rate structure. The PSC must enter a final order within 90 days, which will authorize a new rate distributed proportionally among ratepayers. The bill also provides provisions for potential further proceedings, limitations on filing new rates, and sets an effective date of October 1, 2025. The primary goal is to create a more transparent and structured approach to rate adjustments for electric cooperatives in Maryland.

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https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0984?ys=2025RS