Lowering Utility Bills Act
To amend the Federal Power Act and the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 to require investor owned electric utilities and gas utilities and transmission providers to, when establishing or calculating a return on equity, establish or calculate the return on equity at the lowest return on equity in an established range of reasonableness, and for other purposes.
The "Lowering Utility Bills Act" aims to reduce the cost of utility bills for consumers by amending key federal laws. Specifically, it requires investor-owned electric and gas utilities, as well as transmission providers, to set their return on equity at the lowest level within an established range. This change is intended to lower the overall cost of utility services, making them more affordable for households.
This bill would affect consumers who rely on electric and gas utilities for their energy needs. By potentially lowering the rates set by utility companies, it could result in reduced utility bills for many families, thereby easing financial burdens related to energy expenses. Additionally, the bill could impact utility companies by altering how they calculate their returns, possibly affecting their profitability.
The bill was introduced on April 29, 2026, and was referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce on the same day. As of now, it is in the early stages of the legislative process, and no further actions have been recorded. The committee will review the bill and may hold hearings or make recommendations before it moves forward in the legislative process.
