Bill > HB617

This bill reestablishes the Office of the Consumers' Utility Counsel in Georgia, creating a new chapter in state law to protect consumer interests in utility services. The office will be led by a director appointed by a five-member committee comprising legislators from both parties and a gubernatorial appointee, who must be a qualified attorney with expertise in utility proceedings. The director will represent consumers in proceedings before the Public Service Commission and other agencies, with the power to initiate complaints, take depositions, and access commission records related to utility services. The bill defines consumers as individual users or small businesses (10 or fewer employees with annual net income under $100,000) who receive utility services, and aims to ensure that citizens receive adequate utility services at the lowest reasonable cost while maintaining utilities' ability to provide services. The director will be paid at the same rate as district attorneys, must submit an annual report to state leadership, and is prohibited from private legal practice. The office will have access to commission staff and resources, and can employ necessary technical and clerical assistance within appropriated funds, with the ultimate goal of protecting consumer interests in utility-related matters.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/70747