Alabama Lawmakers Debate Utility Regulation Bills

0:00On this March 11th in Birmingham, here's what is making headlines. Alabama lawmakers are debating two bills to overhaul the Public Service Commission, the agency that regulates utilities like Alabama Power. These measures aim to address soaring electricity costs for customers. Hearings are scheduled for Wednesday in committees. One proposal, House Bill 475, would mandate traditional rate cases every three years, something not done in over 40 years. It would also limit Alabama Power's return on equity to the national average, potentially saving money for ratepayers by curving profits. Meanwhile, Senate Bill 360 takes a different approach by expanding the commission from three at large members to seven elected from districts. It creates a new cabinet-level secretary of energy, appointed by the governor, to leave the agency and set its agenda. More new spots would fill by July 2026 with full elections by 2030. Both bills block passing lobbying, advertising, and charity costs to customers' bills.

1:04They come after reports showed Alabama is facing some of the nation's highest power rates with the utilities' profits jumping 113 million dollars last year. This push follows a failed earlier bill to shift the commission to appointed members, which face backlash over a recorded lobbyist conversation. Energy costs remain a hot topic as the session heats up. D&N is sponsored by our partner. Headphones in a pillow, simple idea, surprisingly addictive, S-O-L-I-S-O-L-P-L-O dot com.