PSC REPORT: ENERGY ASSISTANCE S.B. 556:
COMMITTEE SUMMARY
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Senate Bill 556 (as introduced 5-7-09)
Sponsor: Senator Jason E. Allen
Committee: Energy Policy and Public Utilities
Date Completed: 9-17-09
CONTENT
The bill would amend Public Act 3 of 1939, the Public Service Commission (PSC) law, to require the Commission to file with the Legislature a biennial report presenting recommendations on the elimination of barriers to assisting senior customers who could be eligible for Federal and State energy assistance programs, as well as recommendations to changes in shut-off procedures. The PSC would have to submit the first report within two years after the bill's effective date.
The PSC also would have to work with the Departments of Human Services and Community Health, providers, and social services agencies to identify barriers to assisting customers who could be eligible for Federal and State energy assistance programs.
("Provider" would mean an electric utility, municipally owned electric or natural gas utility, cooperative electric utility, or alternative electric supplier, or an investor-owned natural gas utility whose rates are regulated by the PSC.)
Proposed MCL 460.9k Legislative Analyst: Suzanne Lowe
FISCAL IMPACT
The costs of the report required by this bill would be covered with existing revenue to the PSC. The PSC is funded with assessments levied on utility companies.
Fiscal Analyst: Elizabeth Pratt
Maria Tyszkiewicz
Analysis was prepared by nonpartisan Senate staff for use by the Senate in its deliberations and does not constitute an official statement of legislative intent. sb556/0910