Bill > S0385

This bill, known as the 2025 Utility Company Billing Transparency Act, aims to increase clarity and accountability for utility customers in Rhode Island by imposing new requirements on electric and gas distribution companies with over 100,000 customers. The legislation requires utilities to provide more detailed and transparent billing information, including comprehensive ratepayer impact analyses before implementing rate changes, monthly detailed descriptions of charges that break down the costs of various services, periodic explanations of significant rate fluctuations, and annual reports detailing the factors contributing to rate adjustments. The bill recognizes that consumers have been confused by complex utility bills and seeks to help them better understand their energy costs by mandating clear explanations of how charges are calculated and what services they cover. The Public Utilities Commission will be responsible for enforcing these new transparency requirements, with the power to impose fines or suspend rate filings if utilities do not provide accurate and clear information. By requiring utilities to explain rate changes and provide context about cost factors, the bill aims to promote trust, accountability, and consumer understanding of utility billing practices, ultimately empowering customers to make more informed decisions about their energy services.

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