Senate Bill 331 Summary

• Expands distribution system improvement charges (DSIC) to electric, gas, and water utilities, whereas previously only water utilities could implement them.

• Requires the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (IURC) to automatically approve a DSIC unless revenues exceed 5% of the utility's approved base revenues; allows approval of DSICs exceeding 5% if determined to be in the best interest of the utility and ratepayers.

• Shortens the mandatory rate review period from every four years to every three years for utilities that implement a DSIC.

• Requires the IURC to proportionally reduce a utility's basic rates and charges when the utility realizes cost savings from implementing a DSIC.

• Permits utilities to file for DSIC changes as needed rather than limiting filings to once per year.