H.R. 9700: Ratepayer Justice and Commercial Power Accountability Act

The bill would create a federal fund to help reimburse utility customers who were harmed by corruption or misconduct by utilities. The fund would be paid for through assessments on utilities, utility executives, and lobbyists.

Money from the fund could be used to provide:

• Direct refunds to ratepayers

  — customers who paid inflated or improper utility charges could receive compensation.

• Community grants

  — funds could be directed to affected communities.

• Support for consumer advocates

  — expenses for consumer groups or advocates involved in related proceedings could be reimbursed.

• Enforcement and oversight

  — the bill includes reporting and enforcement provisions to help identify misconduct and recover money.

The bill also gives special attention to nuclear power plant safety, requiring heightened scrutiny in that area.

In addition, the bill defines several terms used throughout the law, including public officials, utility rates and rate orders, regional development organizations, state actors, states, state commissions, and the Act’s Working Group. These definitions are meant to clarify who and what is covered by the bill.

Relevant Companies

• None found