House Energy Committee hears bill to shorten gas utility rate cases, supporters cite investment, credit concerns

The House Energy Committee heard extensive testimony supporting House Bill 142, a proposal to modernize rate making for Ohio natural gas utilities by reducing so‑called "regulatory lag," allowing forward (forecasted) test years and creating expedited review procedures for large‑load contracts and mandated compliance cost recovery.

Bob Heidorn, president and CEO of Columbia Gas of Ohio, said the bill is designed to align Ohio with neighboring states and reduce the time between utility investment and rate recovery. "All House Bill 142 accomplishes is leveling this playing field by providing a regulatory framework like the ones already in place in those states," Heidorn told the committee. He said Columbia Gas invests roughly $500 million annually in its pipeline system and that faster cost recovery would lower borrowing costs and make Ohio more competitive for large industrial and data‑center customers.

Witnesses from the natural‑gas sector and outside experts reinforced that theme. Jimmy Stewart, president of the Ohio Gas Association, said timely cost recovery and clear PUCO…