HB2171 Summary

• Requires public utilities to demonstrate that existing customers will not subsidize costs of new construction beyond Commission rules and customer payments, with explicit consideration of economic impact on customers.

• Mandates annual Commission reports to the General Assembly on gas utilities' infrastructure projects, timelines for replacing cast iron and vintage steel piping, and adequacy of replacement schedules for public safety.

• Excludes costs associated with plant additions for new gas customer connections from cost-recovery mechanisms that would spread expenses to existing customers, except for amounts specified in Commission rules or paid by the applicant.

• Directs the Commission to investigate gas utility tariffs providing free main extensions to new customers and suspend those tariffs during investigation under existing default rules.

• Requires the Commission to initiate rulemaking within 60 days to establish uniform methods for determining the value of gas main extensions provided to new customers without additional charges.