Lawmakers consider creating utility watchdog

BOISE (AP) — A House committee has introduced a plan to institute a consumer watchdog to keep tabs on Idaho's public utilities.

The House Ways and Means Committee agreed to introduce the measure Wednesday, which won't receive a hearing but serves as a preview of a possible 2013 legislative battle.

Boise Rep. Brian Cronin is pushing the plan, which calls for a Consumer Utility Advocate Office.

It would represent Idaho citizens in rate hike cases and regulatory issues before the Idaho Public Utilities Commission.

Idaho is among a handful of states without some form of utility advocate for ratepayers.

The idea was discussed but never implemented in the state's energy plan that passed the Legislature this year.

Idaho utility companies, such as Idaho Power Co., have opposed a consumer advocate in the past.