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HR 512

A Resolution urging the creation of an interstate compact to allow for a competitive electric transmission market to flourish in the best interest of the electric ratepayer and the economy in general.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Heather Boyd and 12 co-sponsors

Urges creating an interstate compact to govern cross-border electric transmission to foster a competitive market that benefits ratepayers and the regional economy.

Referred to Energy
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HR 512

Summary of HR 512 (2025-2026) – Pennsylvania

Overview

  • Title: A Resolution urging the creation of an interstate compact to allow for a competitive electric transmission market to flourish in the best interest of the electric ratepayer and the economy in general.
  • Session/Jurisdiction: 2025-2026, Pennsylvania
  • Type: House Resolution (non-binding)
  • Status: Referred to the House Committee on Energy (as of 2026-05-04)
  • Sponsors: A broad bipartisan list including Eric Nelson, Jonathan Fritz, Ed Neilson, Mandy Steele, Rob Matzie, Ben Sanchez, Bob Merski, Tom Mehaffie, Dave Delloso, Pat Harkins, Joe Ciresi, Carol Hill-Evans, Heather Boyd

Purpose and Intent

  • The resolution seeks to advocate for the creation of an interstate compact governing electric transmission.
  • The core aim is to foster a competitive electric transmission market.
  • Emphasizes benefits to electric ratepayers and the broader economic health of the region.

Key Provisions and Proposals

As a resolution, HR 512 is primarily a policy statement rather than a bill proposing enforceable statutes. The notable elements include:

  • Advocacy for an interstate compact: The resolution urges state action to form or participate in an agreement among states to govern cross-border electric transmission.
  • Promotion of competition: The compact would aim to introduce or enhance competition within the electric transmission market, potentially affecting how transmission services are priced and delivered.
  • Focus on ratepayer interests: Arguments center on achieving lower or more stable electricity rates for consumers.
  • Economic benefits: The proposal links competitive transmission markets to broader economic advantages, such as investment, job creation, and regional energy resilience.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Electric ratepayers: Potentially through changes in transmission pricing and service efficiency.
  • Electric utilities and transmission providers: Entities that would operate under the rules of a new interstate compact; may face changes in market structure and regulatory oversight.
  • State government/regulators in Pennsylvania and partner states: Agencies would need to engage with the compact framework and ensure alignment with state law.
  • General economy: Indirect beneficiaries from improved energy competitiveness and potential investment.

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

  • House action: Referred to the Energy Committee (2026-05-04), indicating the bill is in the early stages of consideration.
  • Non-binding nature: As a resolution, it signals intent and sets policy direction rather than creating binding statutory obligations or funding.
  • Next steps (typical for such resolutions):
    • Committee hearings or discussions to explore feasibility, interstate collaboration, and statutory alignment.
    • Potential negotiations with other states' legislators to draft a framework for an interstate compact.
    • Possible advancement to a full House vote, Senate consideration, or serving as a basis for executive or regulatory engagement rather than immediate law.

Notes for Readers

  • The bill does not enact new law by itself; rather, it signals legislative support for pursuing an interstate compact that would regulate electric transmission markets.
  • The success of this initiative depends on interstate diplomacy, federal compatibility (given the interstate nature of electricity transmission), and subsequent statutory or regulatory actions at the state and multi-state levels.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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