The Colorado Public Utilities Commission (PUC) has announced a series of public comment, information, and engagement opportunities for February. The commission encourages participation from community members in its decision-making process and is providing several ways for the public to engage on matters before the PUC.
A virtual public comment hearing on proposed rules for Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) events will take place on January 28. PSPS is a wildfire mitigation strategy used by utility companies to reduce wildfire risks caused by downed power lines. The PUC states, “All public input is welcome regardless of whether you have directly experienced a shut off event.”
On February 2, there will be a Commissioners’ Information Meeting focused on PSPS, where local governments and emergency management offices will provide input. This meeting can be viewed on the PUC YouTube Channel.
The monthly meeting of the PUC 9-1-1 Services Enterprise Board is scheduled for February 4.
On February 5, the commission will hold a virtual hearing regarding rulemaking for wayside system detectors as part of its rail safety section. The proposed rules would require annual reporting from railroads operating mainlines in Colorado about their detector systems and procedures for handling detected problems. Additionally, new criteria are being considered to address blocked crossings and emergency vehicle access.
February 9 brings another virtual hearing about amendments to gas and electric disconnection report requirements. These changes aim to streamline reporting processes while improving data quality and regulatory oversight related to energy affordability and preventing disconnections.
A regular opportunity for public comment during the commission’s second weekly meeting of each month will occur virtually on February 11 due to ongoing building construction. Comments at this session cannot address matters currently before the commission or topics listed on that meeting’s agenda.
On February 17, there will be a hearing concerning equity rulemaking. Proposed rules seek to guide how utilities analyze impacts on different communities—especially those identified as disproportionately impacted—and fulfill legislative requirements under SB21-272 related to equity considerations in planning, rates, and programs.
A remote public comment hearing addressing Transportation Network Companies (TNCs) such as Uber and Lyft is set for February 23. The rulemaking focuses on measures against imposter drivers who use qualified drivers’ accounts improperly, proposes harsher penalties for violations by TNCs or drivers, considers information sharing between licensed TNCs when imposter drivers are found, and explores making certain refusal-of-service reports publicly available.
Public comments can be submitted online through the Commission’s form or via email at dora_puc_comments@state.co.us. Written comments may also be mailed to Colorado Public Utilities Commission, 1560 Broadway, Suite 250, Denver, CO 80202; oral comments can be left at (303) 869-3490 with options in English or Spanish. Details about hearings are available at https://puc.colorado.gov/puccalendar.
Interpreting services in American Sign Language (ASL) and Spanish are available if requested two weeks ahead of each hearing by contacting Megan.Castle@state.co.us.
“The PUC invites the public to provide public comment, participate in informational and stakeholder meetings, and engagement opportunities,” according to the announcement.
