Indiana would bar lobbying costs from regulated electric and gas rates

Indiana’s utility regulator could not allow covered utilities to recover listed costs through customer rates. It applies to electric and gas utilities whose customer rates the state regulator approves. The rule covers direct and indirect costs for listed activities, including lobbying, charitable giving, and investor relations. If enacted, this rule would take effect July 1, 2026.

Covered utilities would file yearly spending reports, and the regulator would link to them online. This applies to electric and gas utilities whose customer rates the state regulator approves. Reports would cover listed costs billed or assigned to a utility, including costs from affiliated companies and related staff work. The regulator would hide information it cannot legally disclose. If enacted, reporting would begin in 2026 after the chapter takes effect July 1; the regulator would set filing dates.

Covered utilities would break down charges and fees on customer bills. This applies to electric and gas utilities whose customer rates the state regulator approves. When they apply, bills would separately show delivery, supply, program charges, credits, taxes, and fees. Utilities would explain unclear items and separate their costs so the bill reflects them accurately. This would apply to bills issued after December 31, 2026.

Covered utilities would need approval after a hearing for listed deals. The regulator would give an eligible buyer the first option to buy a system offered for transfer. Two types of utility corporations listed in the bill are exempt. The first option would go to a city or town where the system sits or to a public charitable trust. The first option would apply when a public utility asks to sell, assign, or transfer its system or operating rights. If enacted, these rules would take effect July 1, 2026.