BILL REQ. #:  S-0152.3 

Read first time 01/14/13.   Referred to Committee on Energy, Environment & Telecommunications.

     AN ACT Relating to uncontested rate modifications for utilities and transportation commission regulated water companies; and adding a new section to chapter 80.28 RCW.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON:

NEW SECTION.  Sec. 1   A new section is added to chapter 80.28 RCW to read as follows:
     (1) A water company that is currently in compliance with all applicable requirements of the commission may adjust all of its charges by up to three percent in any calendar year without a hearing in order to cover increased costs for water and employees' compensation and benefits, provided that the water company has not changed its rates in the prior twelve-month period. Further, the water company is required to give written notice of the proposed rate adjustment to the ratepayers receiving service from the water company prior to the effective date of the rate adjustment. The increased rates do not become effective until at least thirty days after notice and filing with the commission.
     (2) Nothing in this section prevents a water company from filing for a rate change pursuant to any other rule or procedure of the commission.