Montana Public Service Commission: Difference between revisions
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==Jurisdiction== |
==Jurisdiction== |
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The PSC generally regulates private, investor-owned natural gas, electric, telephone, water and private sewer companies doing business in Montana. In addition, the PSC regulates intrastate railroads and certain motor carriers hauling regulated commodities. The PSC oversees natural gas pipeline safety regulations. |
The PSC generally regulates private, investor-owned natural gas, electric, [[telephone]], water and private sewer companies doing business in [[Montana]]. In addition, the PSC regulates intrastate railroads and certain motor carriers hauling regulated commodities. The PSC oversees natural gas pipeline safety regulations. |
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Not all utilities in Montana are regulated by the PSC. Outside PSC jurisdiction are: rural electric and telephone cooperatives; cellular telephone companies; cable TV companies; the quality of municipal water and sewer services; and propane dealers. |
Not all utilities in Montana are regulated by the PSC. Outside PSC jurisdiction are: rural electric and telephone cooperatives; cellular telephone companies; cable TV companies; the quality of municipal water and sewer services; and propane dealers. |
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Revision as of 20:42, 18 February 2010
The Montana Public Service Commission has the responsibility to ensure that public utilities in Montana provide adequate service to customers at reasonable rates. In its decisions, the commission tries to balance the interests of ratepayers who are concerned about utility costs with the utilities' need to have the opportunity to earn a fair rate of return on their investment.
History & Organization
Regulation of public utilities in Montana has evolved from the 3-member Board of Railroad Commissioners created by the Legislature in 1907 to the present 5-member Public Service Commission. In the past, 3 commissioners were elected statewide to 6-year staggered terms, but in 1974 the Legislature expanded the commission to 5 members who are elected from regional districts to 4-year staggered terms. The commissioners elect a chair from among themselves every other year.
The Department of Public Service Regulation provides staff support for the commission. The department's three divisions are Utility, Legal and Transportation/Centralized Services. Employees include economists, accountants, attorneys, rate analysts, enforcement and compliance personnel, and support staff.
Jurisdiction
The PSC generally regulates private, investor-owned natural gas, electric, telephone, water and private sewer companies doing business in Montana. In addition, the PSC regulates intrastate railroads and certain motor carriers hauling regulated commodities. The PSC oversees natural gas pipeline safety regulations.
Not all utilities in Montana are regulated by the PSC. Outside PSC jurisdiction are: rural electric and telephone cooperatives; cellular telephone companies; cable TV companies; the quality of municipal water and sewer services; and propane dealers.
External links
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