Idaho Administrative Code Title IDAPA 31 - Public Utilities Commission
Idaho Administrative Code – Title IDAPA 31: Public Utilities Commission (PUC)
IDAPA 31 contains the administrative rules and regulations adopted by the Idaho Public Utilities Commission (IPUC). The IPUC oversees and regulates the intrastate operations of investor-owned or privately-owned utilities that provide services such as electricity, natural gas, water, and telecommunications.
Key Functions of the Idaho PUC under IDAPA 31:
Regulation of Utilities:
Ensures that utility rates are just, reasonable, and non-discriminatory.
Oversees quality and reliability of services.
Reviews and approves tariffs, rate cases, and service terms.
Consumer Protection:
Establishes complaint procedures and dispute resolution mechanisms.
Sets rules for disconnection, billing, deposits, and payment arrangements.
Utility Operations Oversight:
Monitors utility infrastructure and investment plans.
Regulates accounting practices and reporting.
Telecommunications:
Manages universal service fund and interconnection issues.
Regulates customer notice requirements and service standards.
Safety and Reliability:
Implements safety standards for utility operations.
Mandates emergency planning and outage reporting protocols.
Notable Chapters in IDAPA 31:
31.01.01 – Rules of Procedure of the Idaho Public Utilities Commission
(Governs how the PUC conducts hearings, filings, and investigations)
31.21.01 – Customer Relations Rules for Gas, Electric, and Water Utilities
(Covers billing, meter reading, payment options, and customer service practices)
31.41.01 – Small Water Company Rules
(Applies to small water utilities with limited customer bases)
31.46.01 – Universal Service Fund Rules
(Rules governing contributions to and disbursements from the Idaho Universal Service Fund)
31.71.01 – Railroad Safety Rules
(Although under PUC jurisdiction, these relate to the safety of rail crossings and operations)
Purpose and Scope:
IDAPA 31 ensures that public utility services in Idaho are safe, efficient, and fairly priced. It provides the legal framework for:
Rate regulation
Utility mergers or acquisitions
Public hearings and consumer participation
Service territory disputes
Incentive mechanisms and renewable energy programs (where applicable)
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