Committee orders BPU to report how societal-benefit charge funds are spent
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Summary
The committee released A804 as amended, directing the Board of Public Utilities to produce biannual, itemized reports on societal benefit charge revenues and expenditures for electric and gas utilities to the governor and legislature to increase transparency and accountability.
The Assembly Telecommunications and Utilities Committee voted to release Assembly Bill A804 as amended, a measure requiring the Board of Public Utilities (BPU) to prepare and deliver twice-yearly, itemized reports on societal benefit charge (SBC) revenues and expenditures to the governor and legislature.
Sponsor Assemblyman Selma Bailey said constituent calls about energy affordability — including LIHEAP and other assistance programs — motivated the bill. Committee amendments direct the BPU to issue reports in January and October of each year and to include an itemized statement of how each electric and gas utility expended SBC revenues, including expenditures not otherwise specified in existing programs.
Why it matters: Witnesses and members said the SBC funds programs used for energy assistance, community solar, and other public benefits, and members want clearer accounting of how those funds are allocated. Division of Rate Counsel testimony underscored concerns about affordability and the need for accounting of series of large disbursements previously described in committee testimony.
Support and next steps: Clean Water Action, the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters and other stakeholders signaled support; members said the reporting will help identify wasteful or ineffective spending and provide legislators and the public with oversight data. The committee released the bill as amended and it will proceed to the next legislative step.
