What is the role of state and local governments in regulating public utilities?

In California, state and local governments both have a role to play in regulating public utilities. The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) is the state agency that, among other things, regulates privately-owned electric, natural gas, telecommunications, water, railroad, rail transit, and passenger transportation companies. The CPUC has the authority to set rates and pricing for services provided by these companies, to ensure proper service is provided, and to investigate complaints lodged against public utilities. Local governments are responsible for providing oversight of public utilities within their jurisdictions and can limit activities that are hazardous or detrimental to the public. This includes issuing permits for utility work, inspecting utility infrastructure for safety, and ensuring any new infrastructure is in compliance with local ordinances. Local governments may also set their own local utility rates. Overall, the state and local governments in California share the burden of regulating public utilities, ensuring they are providing safe and reliable services. This helps protect the public from harm, guarantees equitable pricing, and ensures consumers can exercise their rights as customers.

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What is the role of state and local governments in regulating public utilities?

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