SENATE BILL REPORT

                                    SB 6065

                            AS OF JANUARY 20, 1992

Brief Description:  Subjecting public utility districts' actions to the jurisdiction and control of the utilities and transportation commission.

SPONSORS: Senators Saling and Stratton

SENATE COMMITTEE ON ENERGY & UTILITIES

Staff:  Phil Moeller (786‑7445)

Hearing Dates: January 21, 1992

BACKGROUND:

Public Utility Districts are municipal corporations organized generally on a county or sub-county level to provide certain utility services, usually electrical service or water service.  The ability to form a Public Utility District (PUD) was enacted through a statewide vote in 1930.

A PUD is governed by a board of commissioners who are individually elected by voters living in the PUD service territory.  The rates and charges made by a PUD are determined by each commission, with no requirement of approval by any state entity.  Laws pertaining to Public Utility Districts are contained in Title 54 RCW.

The Utilities and Transportation Commission presently regulates the rates, charges and services of investor-owned public utilities.  The UTC consists of three commissioners, each appointed by the Governor.

SUMMARY:

The rates, charges and services provided by a Public Utility District are subject to approval by the Utilities and Transportation Commission.

Appropriation:  none

Revenue:  none

Fiscal Note:  requested January 20, 1992