This draft reflects two modifications. First, there is no date specified for the initiation of settlement discussions, as these could take place at any time during the proceeding. Second, this schedule includes public hearings to provide the Board with input from social service agencies and members of the public who wish to provide comments to the Board without participating in an evidentiary proceeding. Under Section 12 of the Electric Discount and Energy Restructuring Act, the Legislature recognized that effective Universal Service programs are an essential part of the energy restructuring process. For the reasons stated above and at the March 9 initial meeting in this matter, the Ratepayer Advocate urges the Board to adopt a procedural schedule to assure that these important programs are in place for the 2000-01 winter heating season.
All parties file initial testimony containing universal service proposals.
Gas utilities file earlier if required in unbundling stipulations. Apr. 28 Discovery questions due. May 15 Responses to discovery due. May 26 Rebuttal testimony due. June 26 Initial Briefs.