HB 1535

Bill Subjects

Utilities Utility Regulatory Commission

Abstract

Defines a "facility operator" as a: (1) public utility; or (2) communications service provider; that owns or operates a facility used to provide certain utility services or communications service. Provides that if a person, including a customer of a facility operator, requests or requires the modification of one or more facilities of a facility operator, the facility operator: (1) may not refuse to perform the modification if: (A) the local unit in which the modification will occur supports the request; and (B) the facility operator's access to the facility will not be diminished or hindered as a result of the modification; and (2) may require the person requesting or requiring the modification to pay the cost of the modification. Sets forth certain requirements and conditions that apply to a facility operator's determination of the cost of the modification of a facility. Requires a facility operator to include information about requests for modifications of facilities, including information on the factors the facility operator uses in determining the cost of modifications: (1) in the facility operator's filings with the utility regulatory commission (IURC), in the case of a facility operator other than a communications service provider; and (2) on the facility operator's Internet web site. Requires a facility operator, other than a communications service provider, to make the information available for public inspection in each of the facility operator's offices or stations that are open to the public. Provides that upon: (1) the IURC's own motion; or (2) the complaint of a facility operator, a person requesting or requiring the modification of a facility, or certain other qualified complainants; the IURC may investigate the amounts assessed by a facility operator with respect to the modification of a specific facility, or by the facility operator generally for modifications of facilities. Authorizes the IURC to: (1) hold hearings and issue orders in connection with such an investigation; and (2) adopt rules that the IURC considers necessary to implement these provisions.