19990827APA Notice of Proposed Rule.doc

IDAPA 31 - IDAHO PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION

31.41.02INFORMATION TO CUSTOMERS
OF TELEPHONE COMPANIES

DOCKET NO. 31-4102-9901

NOTICE OF PROPOSED RULES

AUTHORITY: In compliance with Section 67-5220(1), Idaho Code, notice is hereby given of the Idaho Public Utilities Commissions proposed rulemaking. This action is authorized pursuant to Sections 61-502 and 61-601, Idaho Code.

PUBLIC HEARING SCHEDULE: A public hearing concerning this rulemaking will be scheduled only if requested in writing by twenty-five (25) persons, a political subdivision, or an agency, no later than October 20, 1999. The hearing site will be accessible to persons with disabilities. Request for accommodations must be made no later than five (5) days prior to the hearing, to the Commission’s address set out below.

DESCRIPTIVE SUMMARY: The Commission proposes to amend rule that requires utilities make available brief written summaries of testimony to be offered at “all Commission hearings.” The Commission proposes to relax the requirement that summaries be prepared for all hearings. The rule contemplates that parties may request that the Commission dispense with the preparation of summaries on a case-by-case basis. The Commission also proposes to clarify the requirements of this rule. If a utility is requesting a rate increase, its summary shall address the utility’s need for additional revenue, the dollar amount requested, and the proposed percentage increase or decrease for each major customer group. Intervenors in Commission cases shall also be required to make brief written summaries available.

The Commission also proposes to amend the rule to reflect the occasional practice of requiring oral presentations or briefings prior to the beginning of a public hearing. The Commission has found that these informal and off-the-record presentations prior to the beginning of a hearing provides the public with a greater understanding of the issues that will arise during the hearing. Written summaries and oral presentations are to be provided solely for the convenience of the public attending the hearing. Such summaries or presentations will not be allowed as evidence or form the basis for cross-examination of any witness.

NEGOTIATED RULEMAKING: Pursuant to IDAPA 04.11.01.0811, negotiated rulemaking was not conducted.

ASSISTANCE ON TECHNICAL QUESTIONS: For assistance on technical questions concerning the proposed rules, contact Donald L. Howell, II, Deputy Attorney General at [phone].

DEADLINE FOR WRITTEN COMMENTS: Anyone may submit written comments regarding these proposed rules. All written comments and data concerning the proposed rules must be delivered to the Commission Secretary at the address identified above or must be postmarked on or before October 27, 1999. Persons desiring to comment are encouraged to submit written comments at their earliest convenience rather than wait until the comment deadline.

DATED this day of August 1999.

Barbara Barrows
Assistant Commission Secretary
Idaho Public Utilities Commission Street Address for Express Mail:
PO Box 83720
Boise, ID 83720-0074 472 West Washington Street
Telephone: [phone] Boise, ID 83702-5983
FAX: [phone]