SB 434: Utility transparency and reporting.

Official summary

Abstract published by the legislature (via Open States). Text as published by the legislature; reproduced verbatim.

Provides that the Indiana utility regulatory commission (IURC) may not authorize a public utility that: (1) provides retail electric or natural gas service; and (2) is under the IURC's jurisdiction for the approval of rates and charges; (utility) to recover through the utility's retail rates and charges any direct or indirect costs associated with specified expenses and activities related to lobbying, legislative action, political activities, charitable giving, litigation, investor relations, and other specified activities and expenses. Beginning in 2025, requires a utility to file with the IURC an annual report that includes specified information concerning costs to: (1) the utility; or (2) an affiliate of the utility; that are related to these expenses or activities and that are directly billed or allocated to the utility. Requires the IURC to make available on the IURC's website a direct link to the annual reports provided by all utilities under these provisions. Provides that on any customer bill issued by a utility after December 31, 2025, the utility must include a break down of the charges and fees that make up the total amount owed, including a description of the service or cost associated with each charge or fee. Sets forth certain charges and fees that must be delineated as specific line items on each customer bill.

Sponsors

Sponsors by party (alphabetical): Democratic 3

“Support” is shown only as formal sponsorship recorded by the legislature. Roll-call votes are available on the official bill page.

Recent official actions

1. January 13, 2025Senators Spencer and Ford J.D. added as coauthors
2. January 13, 2025First reading: referred to Committee on Utilities
3. January 13, 2025Authored by Senator Hunley