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HB 5943

AN ACT REMOVING THE COMBINED PUBLIC BENEFITS CHARGE FROM ELECTRIC UTILITY BILLS AND REQUIRING LEGISLATIVE APPROVAL FOR ANY FUTURE COMBINED PUBLIC BENEFITS CHARGE.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Anne Dauphinais

Eliminates Connecticut's utility bill surcharge funding clean energy and low-income assistance programs; requires future similar charges get legislative approval.

REF. TO JOINT COMM. ON Energy and Technology
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Bill Summary · HB 5943

Legislative bill overview

HB 5943 would eliminate Connecticut's Combined Public Benefits Charge (CPBC)—a surcharge currently added to electric utility bills that funds energy efficiency programs, renewable energy development, and low-income energy assistance. The bill also requires any future similar charges to receive explicit legislative approval rather than being implemented through regulatory action.

Why is this important

The CPBC currently generates hundreds of millions of dollars annually for Connecticut's clean energy and energy assistance programs. Removing it could significantly disrupt funding for weatherization programs, solar/renewable energy incentives, and bill assistance for low-income households. This directly affects utility rates for all consumers and the state's ability to meet renewable energy goals.

Potential points of contention

  • Program funding crisis: Eliminating the charge without identifying alternative funding sources could defund popular energy efficiency rebates, solar programs, and low-income assistance, leaving a substantial budget gap
  • Rate impact uncertainty: While removing the charge lowers bills immediately, it may shift costs elsewhere or reduce programs that help manage long-term energy costs through efficiency
  • Legislative gridlock on future charges: Requiring legislative approval for any replacement mechanism could make it difficult to implement emergency energy programs or adapt to changing energy needs without multiple legislative sessions
  • Clean energy progress: Connecticut has renewable energy mandates and climate goals; removing dedicated funding may slow progress toward those targets

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

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