Requires public hearings on increases in utility charges

This 2004 bill requires the Public Service Commission to hold public hearings at least 90 days before deciding on utility rate increases, fees, rentals, or charges. The hearings must occur in the specific area affected by the proposed increase, allowing residents to share comments and ask questions directly to both the utility company and the commission. It applies to all utility rate changes and mandates this public input step before any approval decision. The law took effect 90 days after enactment, with necessary rule changes allowed before that date.