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Bill

SB 48

Relating to powers and duties of PSC

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Craig Hart and 1 co-sponsor

West Virginia bill adjusts Public Service Commission regulatory powers affecting utility rate-setting, service standards, and consumer protections statewide.

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Bill Summary · SB 48

Legislative bill overview

SB 48 modifies the powers and duties of West Virginia's Public Service Commission (PSC), the regulatory body overseeing utilities like electricity, gas, and water. The bill adjusts the PSC's authority and operational framework, though specific provisions require examination of the full text to detail exact changes. This is a structural regulatory bill affecting how utilities are regulated in the state.

Why is this important

The PSC directly impacts utility rates, service quality standards, and infrastructure investments that affect every household and business using electricity, gas, or water in West Virginia. Changes to PSC powers can influence consumer protections, environmental standards compliance, and the utility industry's operational requirements. These modifications could have cascading effects on utility bills and service reliability across the state.

Potential points of contention

  • Rate-setting authority – Whether changes expand or limit the PSC's ability to approve utility rate increases, affecting consumer costs
  • Environmental/safety standards – Whether modifications strengthen or weaken the PSC's enforcement powers regarding environmental compliance and public safety
  • Utility company influence – Concerns about whether changes benefit regulated utilities over consumer protections or vice versa

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

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