Public utilities: other; use of revenues as donation to a 501(c)(4) that engages in campaign or lobbying activities; prohibit. Amends 1939 PA 3 (MCL 460.1 - 460.11) by adding sec. 6bb. TIE BAR WITH: HB 4381'25

House Bill 4381 prohibits electric and natural gas utilities, along with individuals and entities closely associated with them ("covered persons"), from making donations or contributions to specific political organizations. These prohibited recipients include 501(c)(4) and 527 organizations that are controlled by or employ state officials, candidates, or their affiliates, as well as various candidate and political party committees. The bill requires utilities to attest to their compliance in general rate case applications. Violations can result in civil fines ranging from 5 to 10 times the amount of the unlawful contribution, and potentially additional penalties for utilities, such as the denial of rate increase requests.