Nevada lawmakers at work forming energy proposals

Erin Neff

Thursday, Feb. 22, 2001 | 11:24 a.m.

CARSON CITY -- With numerous hearings on the energy crisis drawing headlines statewide, politicians from both parties are poised to present their own plans to address deregulation and consumer concerns.

Gov. Kenny Guinn held a press conference late this morning to announce his ideas on the energy crisis. He has previously said deregulation should remain on hold in Nevada until the market is more tenable to competition.

The Democratic leadership of the Legislature announced its own energy package late Wednesday, just as lawmakers entered the Assembly chambers for an address by Rep. Jim Gibbons, R-Nev.

Assembly Speaker Richard Perkins, D-Henderson, said he will appoint a Select Committee on Energy in the next few days to hear energy proposals. He said the committee is necessary to allow full discussion of all the proposals without putting undue burden on existing committees.

One of the key proposals of the Democrats' package is a bill to place a moratorium on deregulation until approved by the Legislature. Another proposal would put a moratorium on the sale of power plants until the economic impact of such divestiture is determined.

Another proposal would prohibit rate increases from going into effect without Public Utilities Commission evaluation. Alternative energy providers will be encouraged to do business in Nevada in another proposal.

Yet another bill would prohibit the acquisition of Portland Electric if the transaction is not in the best interest of ratepayers.

Sen. Dina Titus, D-Las Vegas, plans to introduce a bill to streamline the application process for new power plants.

Assemblywoman Bonnie Parnell, D-Carson City, introduced a bill Wednesday to offer $5 million in additional funding to low-income energy assistance program recipients.

Assemblyman David Goldwater, D-Las Vegas, plans similar legislation.