MI HB6074

Eliminates utilities' ability to use projected costs and revenues for future 12-month periods when establishing rates; requires the commission to use actual historical test year costs adjusted only for known and measurable changes.

Establishes a 180-day deadline for the commission to rule on gas utilities' motions for partial and immediate rate relief, with a 12-month deadline for final orders in cases where such motions are filed.

Allows utilities to implement proposed rate increases automatically if the commission fails to issue a final order within 180 days of a complete application filing, but requires refund of excess amounts collected with interest if final rates are lower.

Requires the commission by April 20, 2018 to conduct a study on equitable cost-of-service tariffs for customers participating in net metering or distributed generation programs, with tariff approval required in rate cases filed after June 1, 2018.

Maintains existing provisions requiring full hearings before rate increases, prohibits automatic adjustment clauses without notice and hearing, and preserves the commission's authority to issue temporary orders preventing rate implementation for good cause.