NJ S143

Public utilities are prohibited from filing rate increase requests while the Board of Public Utilities (BPU) has directed them to file a base rate case to determine if they exceeded their authorized rate of return.

Public utilities are also barred from seeking rate increases while under BPU investigation for potentially exceeding their authorized rate of return.

The BPU is prohibited from considering, reviewing, or approving any rate increase petitions during these same circumstances.

The prohibition on rate increase filings remains in effect until the BPU concludes the base rate case proceeding or investigation.

The bill takes effect immediately upon enactment and amends existing public utility rate-setting statutes (R.S.48:2-21).