Legislation that would improve the regulation of public utilities by eliminating unnecessary statutes, codes and rules is working its way through the Legislature.

During a joint hearing before the Senate Committee on Utilities, Technology and Telecommunications and the Assembly Committee on Energy and Utilities, Senator Mike Kuglitsch, author of Assembly Bill 27, said his proposal would update and reform the regulatory process, cut costs and increase efficiency in the commission’s review of applications, and provide greater certainty and fairness to Wisconsin ratepayers and utilities.

NFIB, invited to the hearing on behalf of small business, testified in support of the legislation because it would establish a stable funding mechanism and important operational structure for consumer advocacy at the Public Service Commission (PSC).

“While a consumer advocate will have the expertise and presence at the PSC, NFIB will partner with the advocate whenever it is helpful toward producing the desired outcome on behalf of our state’s small business ratepayers,” said Bill G. Smith, NFIB State Director in Wisconsin.

Assembly Bill 27 and companion Senate Bill 47 have both been recommended for passage by their respective committees.