Bill > HB1745

This bill prohibits public utilities from recovering certain costs through customer rates, focusing on three main areas of expense. First, utilities cannot charge ratepayers for costs related to contested proceedings before the Public Utilities Commission, which includes attorneys' fees, expert witness or consultant fees, and other related legal expenses. Second, the bill bars utilities from passing on costs associated with membership, dues, sponsorships, or contributions to business or industry trade associations that are registered under section 501(c)(6) of the Internal Revenue Code. Third, utilities are prohibited from recovering advertising, marketing, or promotional expenses through rates, with a narrow exception that allows such costs only if the Public Utilities Commission determines they directly benefit ratepayers and are necessary for providing utility service. The bill is designed to reduce the financial burden on consumers by preventing utilities from including certain overhead and administrative expenses in their rate calculations. The legislation will take effect on January 1, 2027, and while the exact financial impact is not precisely quantifiable, the Department of Energy suggests it could potentially result in modest cost savings for state, county, and municipal electricity customers.

Business and Industry

https://gc.nh.gov/bill_Status/billinfo.aspx?id=2196&inflect=2