56-237.2 - Public hearings on protests or objections to rate changes.

§ 56-237.2. Public hearings on protests or objections to rate changes.

Whenever pursuant to § 56-237 there shall be filed with the Commission anyschedule stating a change of rate, toll or charge and a protest or objectionthereto is filed by or on behalf of the lesser of 150 or five percent (5%) ofthe customers or consumers or other persons subject to such rate, toll orcharge, the Commission shall upon reasonable notice conduct a public hearingconcerning the lawfulness of the proposed rate, toll or charge. At any suchhearing involving a change of rate, toll or charge, the burden of proof shallbe upon the applicant therefor to demonstrate that the proposed change isjust and reasonable. The Commission shall prescribe all necessary rules andregulations for the conduct of such hearing, which rules shall afford ampleopportunity for participation or representation by persons affected by suchchange.

(1977, c. 436; 1995, c. 260.)