summary
Introduced
01/21/2026
01/21/2026
In Committee
01/26/2026
01/26/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
104th General Assembly
Bill Summary
Amends the Public Utilities Act. Provides that, for any general rate increase requested by a gas, electric, water, or sewer public utility under the provisions of the Act, the Commission shall hold at least one public hearing during which members of the public can provide input on the requested general rate increase. Provides that any affected ratepayer of a requested general rate increase may testify at the public hearing and may file statements that pertain to the subject matter of the public hearing with the person or persons conducting the public hearing. Provides that a public hearing shall be held in the service territory of the public utility that requested a general rate increase at a time and location to be determined by the Commission. Requires the Commission to comply with certain requirements when determining the location of a public hearing. Provides that the Commission shall provide reasonable notice that complies with the Open Meetings Act to members of the public regarding a public hearing. Provides that "reasonable notice" means notice that is provided at least 14 days before a public hearing. Provides that public hearings shall be conducted by the full Commission, a single commissioner, or an administrative law judge from the Commission. Provides that the Commission shall take into consideration any testimony or comments received from members of the public during the public hearing in its deliberations on the requested general rate increase. Makes other changes.
AI Summary
This bill mandates that for any general rate increase requested by a gas, electric, water, or sewer public utility, the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) must hold at least one public hearing where members of the public can offer their input. Affected customers, known as ratepayers, will have the opportunity to testify and submit written statements, which will become part of the official record for the ICC's decision-making process. These hearings will be held within the utility's service territory, with the ICC required to select a location that is easily accessible, considering population density and public transit options. The ICC must provide at least 14 days' notice for these hearings, adhering to the Open Meetings Act, which ensures transparency in government proceedings. The hearings can be conducted by the full Commission, a single commissioner, or an administrative law judge, and the ICC is required to consider all public testimony and comments when making its final decision on the rate increase, including specific findings in its order detailing how public input influenced the outcome.
Sponsors (1)
Last Action
Referred to Rules Committee (on 01/26/2026)
bill text
bill summary
Loading...
bill summary
Loading...
bill summary
Loading...