Kansas bill would allow rate hikes before state approval

TOPEKA, Kan. - Kansas lawmakers have been considering a proposal that would allow utility companies to raise rates before the state approves the increases.

The Wichita Eagle reports that the proposal for "interim rates" is contained in a House bill that was proposed by natural gas companies. It was the subject of a hearing this week in the House Energy and Utilities Committee.

The measure would allow a utility company to increase rates 30 days after it files with the Kansas Corporation Commission for permission to increase rates.  The commission has 240 days to consider rate hikes. The company would give refunds if the commission decides the utility is entitled to less than requested.

If the utility can't find you, your refund goes into the state's unclaimed property fund.