HB 1254 Summary

• The Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (IURC) must develop a communications system by January 1, 2012, allowing utility customers to request notifications when utilities file for rate increases.

• The IURC must send customers two notices: one when a utility files a rate increase petition (within 10 business days of case assignment) and another when the commission issues its final order (within 3 business days).

• Required notice content must include the filing date, cause number, information about how to access case details, instructions for opting out, contact information for the IURC and the Office of Utility Consumer Counselor, and customer options for participating in proceedings.

• The communications system may use electronic means (email, website), telephonic means (voice calls, automated messages), or other technologically and economically feasible methods as determined by the IURC.

• Failures in providing notices or system malfunctions do not invalidate any IURC orders, and the IURC may adopt emergency rules to implement the requirements.