The Public Advocate (PA) is a position created via statute, Neb. Rev. Stat. § 66-1830, to be a separate and independent division representing the interests of Nebraska citizens and natural gas jurisdictional utility ratepayers in matters regarding the utilities. Further, the PA operates as trial staff before the Commission on contested proceedings regarding Natural Gas regulation, including general rate cases. The PA does not represent individual ratepayers or customers, but all ratepayers as a class before the Commission.
The PA pursuant to State Natural Gas Regulation Act is granted the power to:
- Investigate the legality and reasonableness of rates, charges, and practice of utilities;
- Petition for relief, request, initiate and intervene in any proceeding before the Commission concerning utilities;
- Represent and appear for ratepayers and the public in proceedings before the Commission and in any negotiations or other measures to resolve disputes that give rise to such proceedings; and
- Seek review of Commission orders and decisions as deemed necessary.
For any further questions or information regarding the PA, please contact the Commission at (402) 471-3101.
