HB 1459.E - DIGEST

(DIGEST AS ENACTED)

     Provides that, upon request by an electrical or gas company, the commission may approve rates, charges, services, and/or physical facilities at a discount for low-income senior customers and low-income customers.  Expenses and lost revenues as a result of these discounts shall be included in the company's cost of service and recovered in rates to other customers.

VETO MESSAGE ON HB 1459

                   April 21, 1999

To the Honorable Speaker and Members,

  The House of Representatives of the State of Washington

Ladies and Gentlemen:

     I am returning herewith, without my approval as to section 2, 3, 4, and 5, Engrossed House Bill No. 1459 entitled:

"AN ACT Relating to reduced rate utility services for low-income citizens;"

     This bill will allow the Utilities and Transportation Commission to approve rate discounts for low-income customers of investor-owned electric and gas companies.  Section 1 of the bill provides all of the authority necessary for the Commission to do so.  Sections 2 through 5 of the bill appear to have been added to clarify the legislature's intent.  However, those sections add legal ambiguities and are not necessary to fulfill the policy intent of the legislation.

     For this reason, I have vetoed sections 2, 3, 4, and 5 of Engrossed House Bill No. 1459.

     With the exception of sections 2, 3, 4, and 5, Engrossed House Bill No. 1459 is approved.

                   Respectfully submitted,

                   Gary Locke

                   Governor