MONTGOMERY — Tuesday, the Alabama House of Representatives passed a bill (HB475) sponsored by State Rep. Mack Butler (R-Rainbow City) that would require the Public Service Commission to hold regular public rate case hearings every three years.
The bill also caps returns on equity above the national average.
"I was very pleased the way it went, and I think everybody has heard from the folks back home and paying attention to what they have had to say," he said. "Every single email I have gotten has been opposing the Senate version in favor of the House version."
Butler told reporters following the House passage that he hoped to achieve a compromise with a competing Senate bill.
"We haven't had [conversations with the Senate] yet, but I do anticipate conversations," he said. "[I]'m hoping we can meet somewhere, a meeting of the minds, and maybe take the best of the two bills, and merge them together."
SEE ALSO: Senate passes Public Service Commission expansion
That Senate bill (SB360), sponsored by State Sen. Clyde Chambliss (R-Prattville), changes the commission from three to seven members, who are elected by congressional district and creates an energy secretary.
Butler expressed his skepticism over the Senate bill's creation of a Cabinet-level energy secretary.
The Chambliss bill also includes a requirement for public hearings, but does not include the cap on return on equity.
Jeff Poor is the editor-in-chief of 1819 News and host of "The Jeff Poor Show," heard Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-noon on Mobile's FM Talk 106.5. To connect or comment, email [email protected] or follow him on Twitter @jeff_poor.
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