AZ HB2598

Establishes the attorney general (or designee) as chairperson of the Power Plant and Transmission Line Siting Committee, replacing the previous chairman role.

Increases application deposit fees for certificate of environmental compatibility filings, ranging from $7,900 to $79,000 depending on facility type and transmission line length.

Creates the utility siting fund administered by the commission to account for deposits and expenses separately for each certification case.

Requires applicants to arrange and pay for public notice, hearing location with audiovisual equipment, court reporting services, and hearing recordings posted to the commission's website within two business days.

Allows the commission to require additional deposits if the utility siting fund balance falls below $1,000 and establishes a 2% administrative cost recovery from each application deposit.