MN HF4292

Public utilities are prohibited from recovering through rates any direct or indirect costs associated with advertising, charitable contributions, travel and entertainment expenses for executives and board members, lobbying, political contributions, membership dues and sponsorships, investor relations, penalties or fines, and owned or leased aircraft.

Utilities must file annual written reports with the Public Utilities Commission by March 1 each year (starting 2025) containing itemized expenses for each prohibited category, including date, amount, vendor name, and business purpose.

Violations result in mandatory refunds to ratepayers of improperly recovered amounts plus interest, and the commissioner of commerce may assess nonrecoverable penalties up to the amount improperly recovered.

Advertising is defined narrowly to exclude required disclosures, information about income-based services and energy efficiency programs, safety information, and employment opportunity notices.

Repeals previous subdivisions 8, 9, 17, and 18 of Minnesota Statutes section 216B.16 relating to advertising expenses, charitable contributions, and travel and entertainment costs.