MS SB2779

Authorizes the Public Service Commission and Public Utilities Staff to monitor, investigate, and seek relief in federal forums regarding interstate rates, charges, allocations, and practices of public utilities

Permits both agencies to challenge proposed or final federal decisions, orders, regulations, or laws that impact interstate utility rates

Allows the Commission and Executive Director of Public Utilities Staff to contract with attorneys or consultants, with costs capped at $1,500,000 per agency per affected utility in any 12-month period

Requires utilities to pay consultant costs upon requisition, with utilities permitted to recover these costs plus carrying charges through a rate rider passed on to customers

The act was set to automatically repeal on July 1, 2013