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NH HB1539

Bill

Status

Engrossed

2/25/2026

Primary Sponsor

Michael Vose

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Origin

House of Representatives

2026 Regular Session

AI Summary

  • Authorizes electric utilities to petition the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) for approval to issue rate reduction bonds that securitize storm-related costs, including preparation, restoration, and response expenses from storm damage

  • Requires the PUC to issue a final decision on storm cost financing applications within 60 days of receipt

  • Defines "storm costs" to include prudently incurred utility expenses for storm preparation and restoration, plus all fees, expenses, and transaction costs associated with issuing, servicing, or refinancing the bonds

  • Establishes periodic adjustments to the rate reduction bond (RRB) charge, occurring at least annually but potentially monthly, to ensure sufficient collection of principal, premium, interest, and associated fees

  • Estimated state expenditure impact of $500,000 to $1,000,000 annually from utility assessments for PUC staff and Department of Energy consultant services to review bond petitions

Legislative Description

Authorizing electric utilities to issue AAA-rated bonds for the purpose of storm cost recovery and infrastructure resilience.

Last Action

Committee Report: Ought to Pass with Amendment # 2026-1127s, 03/26/2026; Vote 5-0; Consent Calendar; Senate Calendar 11

3/12/2026

Committee Referrals

Energy and Natural Resources2/25/2026
Finance2/19/2026
Science, Technology and Energy12/10/2025

Full Bill Text

No bill text available