Public utility interim rate amounts limited.

This bill limits how much public utilities can charge customers during interim rate periods while their full rate cases are being reviewed. It requires the state commission to set temporary rates within 60 days without holding a public hearing, but caps any interim rate increase at five percent above existing rates unless special emergency circumstances exist. The law also mandates that utilities refund any excess amounts collected if final rates are lower, with refunds distributed within 120 days and attorney fees allowed if utilities fail to comply with refund deadlines. Additionally, the bill prevents interim rates from taking effect until at least four months after a final decision on previous rate changes, unless specific exceptions apply. These changes directly affect public utility companies and their customers in Minnesota by standardizing how temporary rates are calculated and enforced.