SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5023

BYSenators Benitz and Williams; by request of Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission

Revising provisions for proposed tariff changes.

Senate Committee on Energy & Utilities

Senate Hearing Date(s):January 17, 1989

Majority Report:  Do pass.

      Signed by Senators Benitz, Chairman; Metcalf, Nelson, Owen, Stratton, Sutherland.

Senate Staff:Phil Moeller (786-7445)

                  March 15, 1989

AS PASSED SENATE, MARCH 14, 1989

BACKGROUND:

The state Utilities and Transportation Commission (UTC) is currently required by statute to take action on any filing brought before it within 30 days.  If the UTC does not act, the filing goes into effect as filed.  This is the case even if the effective date specified in the filing is more than 30 days away.  The process would be more flexible if the statute is changed so that UTC action is required within 30 days or before the stated effective date, whichever is later.  Greater flexibility could allow more time for informal negotiations between regulated companies and UTC staff, possibly avoiding rate suspensions.  The choice of an effective date would remain the decision of the company making the filing.

SUMMARY:

RCW 80.28.060 and RCW 80.36.110 are each amended to allow the UTC to suspend tariffs within 30 days or before the stated effective date, whichever is later.  If the UTC does not act, the tariff takes effect as filed.

Appropriation:    none

Revenue:    none

Fiscal Note:      available

Senate Committee - Testified: Steve McLellan, Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission (pro)