An Act amending Title 66 (Public Utilities) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in rates and distribution systems, further providing for valuation of acquired water and wastewater systems.

HB 946 requires water and wastewater utilities seeking to acquire another utility to include specific documentation - like appraisals, purchase price, and rate base calculations - with their application to the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission. It mandates a ratepayer referendum for sales valued at $1 million or more, where customers vote on the acquisition using plain-language ballots that clearly state potential rate impacts. Utilities must mail referendum ballots with at least 45 days' notice and 30 days to respond, with non-response counted as disapproval. This bill directly affects utility companies, ratepayers (customers), and the PUC, which must approve acquisitions only if the referendum shows majority support.