Utilities must report expenses

The Public Utilities Commission may not allow, as operating expenses, a public utility’s travel, entertainment, and similar employee expenses that the commission deems are unreasonable and unnecessary for providing utility service.

To help the PUC determine an acceptable expense, a public utility filing a general rate case petition must include an itemized schedule of all travel and lodging, food and beverage, recreational, gifts and lobbying expenses requested by the commission.

Sponsored by Rep. Debra Hilstrom (DFL-Brooklyn Center) and Sen. Ellen Anderson (DFL-St. Paul), the law is aimed at protecting ratepayers by preventing excessive utility expenses. It is effective Aug. 1, 2010.

HF2798/ SF2519*/CH328