An act relating to requiring municipal corporations to set equalized water and sewer rates throughout the service area

This bill requires Vermont municipalities to set water and sewer rates based on the actual cost of providing those services, ensuring equal rates for all users within a utility's service area. It directly affects municipal corporations (cities/towns) and their ratepayers, including property owners in extraterritorial areas served by the utility. The bill establishes a formal appeal process: ratepayers or property owners can petition the Public Utility Commission within 90 days if they believe rates are unfair, requiring signatures from at least 5% of affected users. The Public Utility Commission must review appeals de novo, potentially adjusting rates, ordering refunds, or authorizing surcharges, with the law taking effect on July 1, 2025.