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HB 5393

AN ACT CONCERNING THE REMOVAL OF THE PUBLIC UTILITIES REGULATORY AUTHORITY FROM THE DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by John Piscopo

Connecticut bill proposes removing Public Utilities Regulatory Authority from environmental agency to create independent utility regulator overseeing rates and service standards.

REF. TO JOINT COMM. ON Energy and Technology
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Bill Summary · HB 5393

Legislative bill overview

HB 5393 proposes to remove the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) from the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) and establish it as an independent agency. This restructuring would separate utility regulation from environmental policy oversight, creating a distinct regulatory body focused solely on public utility matters.

Why is this important

The Public Utilities Regulatory Authority oversees rates, service standards, and operations for Connecticut's electric, gas, water, and telecommunications utilities—decisions that directly affect household utility bills and service reliability for all residents. Moving PURA to independent status could alter how utility regulation balances consumer protection, utility company interests, and energy policy goals. The change also represents a significant reorganization of state government structure with potential budgetary and operational implications.

Potential points of contention

  • Regulatory independence vs. coordination: Separating PURA from DEEP could create conflicts between utility regulation and state energy/environmental goals (like renewable energy mandates or emissions targets), or alternatively, could prevent environmental considerations from influencing utility decisions
  • Institutional efficiency: Questions about whether an independent agency improves or complicates decision-making, and whether separation creates redundant administrative costs versus consolidation efficiencies
  • Consumer advocacy alignment: Disagreement over whether independent status better protects consumers or whether integration with DEEP better ensures utilities align with broader public interest goals around climate and sustainability

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

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