OH HB444

Prohibits electric light companies, gas companies, and natural gas companies (and their affiliates) from recovering political expenditure costs from customers through rates, fees, riders, or other charges.

Defines "political expenditures" to include contributions to candidates/parties, dues to industry associations, lobbying expenses, public opinion campaigns, and any other political or charitable activities.

Requires utilities to submit annual expenditure reports by January 1st to the Public Utilities Commission listing all political expenditures with payee, amount, and purpose; commission compiles reports and submits to general assembly by February 1st.

Establishes penalties of 20 times the improper charges if utilities violate the prohibition, with fines deposited into a political activity fine fund to assist customers with past-due utility bills through the percentage of income payment plan program.

Requires the Public Utilities Commission and Department of Development to adopt rules implementing the prohibition and establishing the process for distributing fine revenues to eligible customers.