Ohio Administrative Code Title 4911 - The Office of the Ohio Consumers' Counsel
Key Provisions of OAC Title 4911
Chapter 4911-1: Governing Board
Composition and Appointment: The OCC is governed by a board responsible for appointing the Consumers' Counsel.
Duties and Powers: The board oversees the operations of the OCC, ensuring it fulfills its mission to advocate for residential utility consumers.
Reporting: The board submits annual reports detailing the activities and expenditures of the OCC.
Chapter 4911-2: Accessing Confidential Personal Information
Authorized Access: This chapter outlines the circumstances under which OCC employees may access confidential personal information, such as responding to public records requests or administering statutory duties.
Compliance: The OCC must adhere to state and federal privacy laws when handling confidential information.
Powers and Duties of the Consumers' Counsel
Under Ohio Revised Code § 4911.02, the Consumers' Counsel has the authority to:
Representation: Represent residential consumers in proceedings before the PUCO, including rate cases and service quality issues.
Litigation: Initiate or intervene in state and federal court cases related to utility matters.
Advocacy: Advocate for policies that protect the interests of residential utility consumers.
Studies: Conduct studies on utility rates and services to inform public policy.
Case Law and Precedents
While specific case law directly interpreting OAC Title 4911 is limited, the OCC's actions and decisions are subject to judicial review. For instance, in Ohio Consumers' Counsel v. Public Utilities Commission of Ohio, the Ohio Supreme Court addressed the scope of the OCC's authority in challenging PUCO decisions. The court held that the OCC has standing to appeal PUCO decisions that affect residential consumers, reinforcing its role as a statutory advocate.
Practical Implications
Consumer Advocacy: The OCC plays a crucial role in ensuring that residential utility consumers have a voice in regulatory proceedings.
Regulatory Oversight: The agency monitors utility practices to ensure compliance with state laws and regulations.
Policy Influence: Through studies and advocacy, the OCC influences public policy related to utility services.
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