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HB 5956

AN ACT REQUIRING LEGISLATIVE APPROVAL FOR THE COMBINED PUBLIC BENEFITS CHARGE.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Craig Fishbein and 1 co-sponsor

Transfers Connecticut public benefits charge approval from regulatory agencies to the state legislature, requiring legislative votes before implementation.

REF. TO JOINT COMM. ON Energy and Technology
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Bill Summary · HB 5956

Legislative bill overview

HB 5956 would require the Connecticut legislature to approve any combined public benefits charge before it can be implemented. Currently, public benefits charges (fees added to utility bills for programs like renewable energy development, energy efficiency, and low-income assistance) can be adjusted administratively. This bill transfers that authority from regulatory agencies to the state legislature.

Why is this important

Public benefits charges significantly affect electricity costs for all Connecticut residents and businesses. Currently, these charges are set through regulatory processes without direct legislative votes, meaning citizens have limited democratic input on how much they pay. This bill would make the process more transparent and politically accountable, though it could slow implementation of energy programs or create legislative gridlock during budget negotiations.

Potential points of contention

  • Energy program funding delays: Requiring legislative approval could slow or prevent timely implementation of renewable energy and efficiency programs, potentially missing federal funding deadlines or climate goals
  • Political leverage over utilities: Giving legislators veto power over public benefits charges could become a bargaining chip in broader budget negotiations, complicating energy policy
  • Administrative efficiency vs. democracy: Current regulatory processes are faster and more technical, but less democratically accountable than legislative votes; this trade-off may benefit different stakeholders unequally
  • Ratepayer impact uncertainty: Unclear whether legislative oversight would increase or decrease charges, or simply make the process more predictable

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

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