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Bill

HB 944

An Act amending Title 66 (Public Utilities) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in rates and distribution systems, further providing for valuation of acquired water and wastewater systems.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Joe Ciresi and 6 co-sponsors

Pennsylvania bill changes how acquired water/wastewater system values are calculated for setting customer utility rates, affecting cost allocation between companies and consumers.

Referred to Local Government
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 944

Legislative bill overview

HB 944 modifies Pennsylvania's public utilities law to change how acquired water and wastewater systems are valued for rate-setting purposes. The bill amends Title 66 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, specifically provisions governing rates and distribution systems when utilities purchase existing water or wastewater infrastructure.

Why is this important

Water and wastewater rates directly affect household utility costs for millions of Pennsylvanians. How acquired systems are valued determines the "rate base" that utilities use to calculate customer charges, so valuation methods significantly impact whether rates increase or decrease following a system acquisition. This affects both residential consumers and businesses relying on these essential services.

Potential points of contention

  • Rate impacts: Changes to valuation methods could increase or decrease customer bills depending on whether the new approach results in higher or lower rate bases
  • Investor vs. consumer interests: Different valuation approaches favor either utility company profitability or consumer rate relief, creating tension between stakeholders
  • System acquisition incentives: The valuation method influences whether utilities are incentivized to acquire smaller municipal systems, raising concerns about consolidation and local control

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

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