Topic: Public Service Commission

Despite opposition from cities in Miami-Dade County, Gov. Rick Scott and the Florida Cabinet approved two nuclear units and 88 miles of transmission lines along with a back-up plan to run the lines through Everglades National Park.

The two take different approaches in dealing with consumer complaints about private water utilities. Simpson would clear a path for customers to demand the PSC revoke a company's operating certificate while Hay's proposal more closely matches the bill moving through the House.

Senators praise Commission Chairman Art Graham and former Rep. Ronald Brisè during a confirmation hearing. After the unanimous votes, a Southern Alliance for Clean Energy representative reiterated her group's disagreements with the PSC on nuclear cost recovery and energy conservation goals for utilities.

As natural gas prices stay low, state leaders' impetus for diversifying Florida's energy supply is fading. House Speaker Will Weatherford said the whole debate about energy has changed because of low gas prices, but Weatherford and Agriculture Commissioner Adam Putnam warn that Florida remains vulnerable to possible future price increases.

"Everyone has heard what the problems are," Sen. Wilton Simpson, R-Trilby and SB 272 sponsor, told a Senate committee. "I think for too long we have had the private utilities in a posture that our consumers were not looked after." ... Related Research: August 2013 PSC report on Utilities Inc. of Florida rate hike request, and Feb. 15, 2013 "Study panel urges that PSC be allowed to fine private water utilities for bad water quality," The Florida Current.

The first of two straight committee weeks begin this week. Lawmakers will consider issues such as school assessment programs, stand your ground, the DEO's CONNECT system, flood insurance, child welfare and medical marjuana. December 2013 campaign finance reports also are due. ... Related Research: Stay up-to-date on all legislative events with the LobbyTools Agenda Calendar.

SB 1472, signed by Gov. Rick Scott on June 14, amended the 2006 state law that allows utilities to charge customers for new nuclear plants that may never be built. The PSC on Tuesday will consider rule changes to implement the legislation.

After a big increase in 2011, participation in Lifeline dropped in fiscal year 2012-13 with the Florida Public Service Commission saying the decline is largely attributable to federal rules requiring re-certification. A 2010 GAO report found more control were needed nationwide after some prepaid phones in the Lifeline program had been put up for sale on Craigslist.

The governor reappoints two to the Public Service Commission and nine as district medical examiners, DEO's inspector general moves to the SUS, and Florida CHAIN promotes from within for an interim director.

Elected officials' annual financial disclosures are due Tuesday, Gulf Power Co.'s rate increase request has two PSC hearings, State Rep. Janet H. Adkins holds a legislative hearing to discuss laws related to sexual offenders and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission meets in Pensacola to discuss and take action on fisheries issues.

The PSC Nominating Council, meeting in Orlando, recommends the required minimum number of candidates for Gov. Rick Scott to choose from. Rep. Jose Felix Diaz, council chairman, said the two commissioners did a good job of making their case for reappointment. ... Related Research: List of six PSC finalists recommended to governor, and PSC Nominating Council rules of procedure

Duke Energy Florida last week said federal licensing delays and SB 1472 contributed to the decision to cancel the project as part of a settlement agreement. On Monday, the Public Service Commission delayed a hearing on Duke's request for nuclear cost recovery while proceeding with a hearing for Florida Power & Light Co. ... Related Research: Florida Public Service Commission announcement for Monday's Nuclear Cost Recovery Hearing, and several statements.

This week the PSC discusses law changes concerning nuclear cost recovery, John Errol Ferguson is scheduled to be executed, the Cabinet meets to discuss USF's request to continue its Dozier research, DEP holds a meeting to discuss Silver Springs restoration, Enterprise Florida holds its quarterly meetings, U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson speaks to a friendly crowd and several revenue estimating conferences are scheduled.

SB 1472, signed by Gov. Rick Scott on June 14, limited nuclear cost recovery to those costs related to applying for a federal license. The push for legislation followed Tampa Bay Times reporting that Duke customers were on the hook for $3 billion for work at the Crystal River nuclear plant and the proposed Levy County site. ... Related Research: Press release, "Duke Energy reaches revised multi-year settlement with Florida consumer advocates," and reaction statements.