Fiedler applauds advancement of utility rate transparency bill from Consumer Protection Committee
Rep. Danilo Burgos September 29, 2026 | 2:36 PM
HARRISBURG, Sept. 29 – A bill that would create a user-friendly public utility rate case record today was reported out of the House Consumer Protection, Technology, and Utilities Committee with unanimous approval.
Currently, information relating to utility rate increases is accessible only on a case-by-case basis on various pages of the Public Utility Commission’s website. As utility bills continue to rise month after month, consumers should be able to easily stay informed when rates increase and by how much.
“When someone sees their electric or water bill go up, they deserve to know how that decision was made –without having to spend countless hours researching and tracking down information,” said prime sponsor Rep. Elizabeth Fiedler, D-Phila. "This is a practical change that gives Pennsylvanians more access to information which they deserve to have.”
In June, Fiedler introduced H.B. 2584 as a companion to S.B. 1254, sponsored by state Sen. Michele Brooks, which would direct the PUC to create a centralized, searchable database containing information on all utility rates under the commission’s jurisdiction.
“I want to thank Rep. Fiedler for her partnership and introducing companion legislation to my S.B. 1254, as well as the House Consumer Protection, Technology and Utilities Committee for advancing this common-sense legislation requiring the PUC to establish a centralized, searchable database regarding utility rate increases using the information they already have,” said Brooks, R-Crawford/Mercer/Lawrence. “H.B. 2584 and S.B. 1254 would allow for greater transparency, accountability, and consumer protection for families and businesses facing these frequent rate increases that are contributing to the rising costs of essential utilities.”
The bill was amended in committee to clarify the exemption of telecommunication carriers. As amended, the bill has no known opposition and is supported by the Office of the Pennsylvania Consumer Advocate.
"Every Pennsylvanian deserves clear, transparent, and accessible information when it comes to the utility rates they pay. House Bill 2584 would take a critical step toward accountability by establishing a user-friendly public record of utility rate increases, ensuring that consumers aren't left in the dark about costs that directly impact their household budgets. Our committee remains dedicated to empowering ratepayers, enhancing transparency across public utilities, and ensuring that essential services remain fair, reliable, and understandable for families across the commonwealth,” said committee Chairman Rep. Danilo Burgos, D-Phila.
The bill awaits further action by the full House of Representatives.