A bill for an act relating to the acquisition of water, sanitary sewer, and storm water utilities by rate-regulated public utilities. (Formerly HF 473, HF 56.) Effective date: 07/01/2024.
Impact
The bill significantly amends state laws regarding utility acquisitions, specifically by requiring that public utilities cannot purchase these utilities without first securing approval from the relevant board. This change aims to protect consumers by requiring that any rate changes associated with acquisitions must be just and reasonable. Moreover, by imposing stringent guidelines on the acquisition process, HF2101 seeks to maintain accountability and transparency in utility management, which could potentially prevent unfair pricing practices.
Summary
House File 2101 aims to regulate the acquisition of water, sanitary sewer, and storm water utilities by rate-regulated public utilities in Iowa. This legislation outlines the specific prerequisites necessary for a public utility to acquire such utilities from non-rate-regulated entities, establishing a clear procedure that includes obtaining prior approval from the board. The key focus is on ensuring that any acquisitions are done in a manner that results in fair rates for customers, emphasizing the need for detailed compliance with existing regulations during the acquisition process.
Sentiment
The sentiment around HF2101 appears to be broadly supportive within legislative discussions, particularly among members who advocate for consumer protection and regulatory oversight. The affirmative voting record, with 91 votes in favor and none against, reflects a consensus on the necessity of clear regulations surrounding utility acquisitions. While the bill is designed to safeguard consumer interests, there may still be underlying concerns regarding how these regulations might affect the operational flexibility of utilities in responding to market conditions.
Contention
While there is considerable support for the bill, some stakeholders may express concerns about the potential bureaucratic delays that could arise from requiring board approval for acquisitions. Additionally, utilities might argue that these regulations could hinder their ability to expand and invest in necessary infrastructure improvements. It remains critical that the balance between consumer protections and operational efficiency is maintained throughout the legislative process.
Similar To
A bill for an act relating to the acquisition of water, sanitary sewer, and storm water utilities by rate-regulated public utilities.(See HF 473, HF 2101.)
Related
A bill for an act relating to the acquisition of water, sanitary sewer, and storm water utilities by rate-regulated public utilities.(See SF 2181.)
Similar To
A bill for an act relating to the acquisition of water, sanitary sewer, and storm water utilities by rate-regulated public utilities.(Formerly HF 56; See HF 2101.)
Similar To
A bill for an act relating to the acquisition of water, sanitary sewer, and storm water utilities by rate-regulated public utilities.(Formerly SSB 1097.)
A bill for an act relating to the acquisition of water, sanitary sewer, and storm water utilities, including required findings by the Iowa utilities commission, the timeline for issuing ratemaking principles, and the determination of applicable ratemaking principles.
A bill for an act relating to the acquisition of water, sanitary sewer, and storm water utilities, including required findings by the Iowa utilities commission, the timeline for issuing ratemaking principles, and the determination of applicable ratemaking principles.
A bill for an act relating to certain public utilities, including the development of ratemaking principles permitted for recovery costs of certain investments in infrastructure by water and wastewater utilities and cost considerations for acquisitions of water, sanitary sewer, or storm water utilities. (Formerly SSB 3068.) Effective date: 07/01/2026
A bill for an act relating to the acquisition of water, sanitary sewer, and storm water utilities, including required findings by the Iowa utilities commission, the timeline for issuing ratemaking principles, and the determination of applicable ratemaking principles.
A bill for an act relating to the acquisition of water, sanitary sewer, and storm water utilities, including required findings by the Iowa utilities commission, the timeline for issuing ratemaking principles, and the determination of applicable ratemaking principles.