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Bill

S 4989

Requires utility service providers to disclose planned rate increases to consumers within a certain amount of time

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Pete Harckham and 1 co-sponsor

Bill S 4989 requires utility providers to notify consumers of planned rate increases in advance, empowering them to manage budgets and avoid unexpected costs.

COMMITTED TO RULES
0
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Bill Summary · S 4989

Summary of Bill S 4989

Bill Overview

  • Bill Number: S 4989
  • Title: Requires utility service providers to disclose planned rate increases to consumers within a certain amount of time
  • Status: COMMITTED TO RULES
  • Introduced: February 14, 2025
  • Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of Bill S 4989 is to enhance transparency in the utility sector by mandating that utility service providers inform consumers of any planned rate increases. This legislation aims to empower consumers with timely information, allowing them to better manage their budgets and make informed decisions regarding their utility services.

Key Provisions

  • Disclosure Requirement: Utility service providers must disclose any planned rate increases to consumers within a specified timeframe prior to the implementation of the increase.
  • Timeframe for Notification: The bill stipulates the exact duration within which consumers must be notified, although the specific time period is not detailed in the provided information.
  • Consumer Protection Focus: The legislation emphasizes consumer rights and aims to protect them from unexpected financial burdens due to sudden rate hikes.

Impact

  • Consumers: The bill directly affects consumers of utility services by ensuring they receive advance notice of any rate changes, which can help them plan their finances accordingly.
  • Utility Providers: Utility companies will be required to implement new communication protocols to comply with the disclosure requirements, potentially impacting their operational processes.

Legislative Timeline

  • February 14, 2025: Bill referred to the Energy and Telecommunications Committee.
  • May 19, 2025: Reported and committed to the Consumer Protection Committee.
  • May 28, 2025: First report calendar (CAL.1410).
  • May 29, 2025: Second report calendar.
  • June 4, 2025: Advanced to third reading.
  • June 9, 2025: Amended on third reading (version 4989A).
  • June 13, 2025: Committed to rules.

Related Bills

  • S 6278: A related bill from a prior session that may address similar issues in utility regulation.
  • S 2993: Another related bill from a prior session, potentially focusing on consumer protection in the utility sector.

This summary provides an overview of Bill S 4989, highlighting its intent, key provisions, and the potential impact on consumers and utility providers. The bill is currently in the legislative process, having been committed to rules as of June 13, 2025.

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

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