MS HB809

Municipalities with populations over 150,000 (per 1990 census) that own water distribution systems are prohibited from charging customers living outside but within 1 mile of city limits more than the rate charged to customers inside the city

If a municipality wants to charge higher rates to customers within that 1-mile zone, it must file a written report with the Public Service Commission and Public Utilities Staff demonstrating the higher rate is justified by additional service costs

The Public Utilities Staff must review the municipality's report and file a recommendation for approval, disapproval, or revision within 45 days

The Public Service Commission must hold a public hearing and issue a final rate determination within 30 days of receiving the staff's recommendation

Even if a higher rate is approved, it cannot exceed twice the rate charged within municipal corporate limits