SB 18-134

Senate Bill 18-134, which has been signed into law, allows nonprofit water utilities that serve fewer than 1,500 customers to operate without the strict oversight of the Public Utilities Commission. This means these nonprofits can set their own rates and terms as long as they are fair and reasonable for their customers. However, if someone complains about unfair practices or rates, certain public officials can ask the commission to step in and address the issue. This bill affects nonprofit water utilities serving small communities and aims to give them more flexibility while still protecting consumers from unreasonable treatment.

Official Summary

Under current law, the public utilities commission is directed to grant simplified regulatory treatment to water companies that serve fewer than 1,500 customers. The bill expands on this concept by deregulating water companies that are registered as nonprofits, so long as their rates, charges, and terms and conditions of service are just and reasonable. The commission retains the right to entertain a complaint of unjust or unreasonable rates or practices, and to take remedial action, if the complaint is authorized by specified public officials or other persons. (Note: This summary applies to the reengrossed version of this bill as introduced in the second house.) , Read More

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