Bill > HB4195

This bill establishes a temporary cap on electrical utility rates in West Virginia to provide relief to residents and businesses experiencing significant rate increases. Specifically, it mandates that the Public Service Commission (PSC), which regulates utility companies, will set capped rates for each electric utility based on their current rates for both generation (the production of electricity) and distribution (delivering electricity to customers). These capped rates will remain in effect until July 1, 2027, with the PSC only allowed to adjust them to account for changes in fuel and purchased power costs, which are the costs utilities incur to buy electricity from other sources. The bill highlights that West Virginia's electric rates have more than doubled between 2005 and 2022, disproportionately affecting lower-income residents and hindering the state's economic development by making it less attractive for electricity-intensive businesses. After the capped rates expire, the rates will revert to the capped amounts until they are changed through the normal regulatory process outlined in the existing law.

Transportation and Infrastructure

http://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/Bills_history.cfm?input=4195&year=2026&sessiontype=RS&btype=bill