MS SB2134

Municipalities with populations over 150,000 (based on 1990 census) that operate water distribution systems may extend service up to 5 miles from corporate limits, subject to Public Service Commission oversight

Water customers residing outside but within 1 mile of such municipalities cannot be charged rates higher than in-municipality rates, unless the municipality demonstrates to the Public Service Commission that higher rates are justified by additional service costs

Municipal governing authorities seeking higher rates for these near-boundary customers must file a written report with the Public Service Commission and Public Utilities Staff detailing why the higher rate is necessary

The Public Utilities Staff must review and make recommendations within 45 days, followed by a commission public hearing and final determination within 30 days of the staff recommendation

Maximum allowable rate for customers within 1 mile of corporate limits cannot exceed twice the in-municipality rate, even with commission approval