CT HB06008

Establishes an Independent Consumer Advocate position to represent consumer interests in Metropolitan District of Hartford County matters regarding rates, water quality, water supply, and wastewater service.

Independent Consumer Advocate selected by the Consumer Counsel for two-year terms beginning January 1 in odd-numbered years, must be a state bar member with public utility law experience, and cannot be removed by the district board.

Advocate has access to district records, can call on technical and legal experts, must submit quarterly activity reports to the district and Consumer Counsel, and shall hold annual public forums on the second Wednesday of October.

Costs for the Independent Consumer Advocate capped at $70,000 annually for the first year and $50,000 thereafter, unless substantial need is demonstrated and approved by the district board.

Amends provisions regarding Metropolitan District budgets, emergency spending procedures, bond issuance authority, and establishes tax withholding mechanisms for member municipalities that fail to timely pay sewer use assessments.