Public Act 102-0958 (HB4973) Summary

• Clarifies that certificates granted to alternative retail electric and gas suppliers are not property interests and do not create property rights, while preserving certificate holders' existing rights to notice and hearing under the Illinois Administrative Procedure Act.

• Modifies certification application timelines requiring Commission action within 45 days after a "complete" application is filed (rather than "the" application) and allows applicants to disclose litigation and complaints while demonstrating capability to fulfill obligations despite pending lawsuits.

• Updates bond requirements and penalties for alternative electric suppliers, specifying $30,000-$500,000 bonds depending on customer type, with bonds drawable for finally adjudicated penalties up to the bond amount (excluding consequential or punitive damages).

• Increases financial penalties for violations: alternative electric suppliers face up to $10,000 per occurrence and up to $30,000 per day for continuing violations after cease and desist orders; similar increases apply to gas suppliers.

• Adds enforcement provisions allowing the Commission to take disciplinary action on its own motion against alternative retail electric and gas suppliers, and clarifies that licenses to agents, brokers, and consultants are not property interests.