August 22, 2006

The Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) today adopted a revised version of stray voltage rules, formally known as "Rules and Regulations Governing Animal Contact Current Mitigation." The rules now go to the Legislative Service Bureau and the State Office of Administrative Hearings and Rules, and the Joint Committee on Administrative Rules, for their review.

The Commission on Nov. 25, 2003 solicited comments on the implementation of standards and other remedial measures relating to stray voltage. The Commission staff subsequently drafted rules creating a protocol for testing for the presence of stray voltage, and if stray voltage is detected, directing the utility to determine the manner and nature of any necessary modifications to resolve the problem.

The Commission also held three public hearings on the proposed rules in Lansing, Plainwell and Lapeer.

The Commission today approved a revised version of the rules that provide for:

• a definition of stray voltage consistent with engineering standards
• measuring animal contact voltage
• action required to mitigate animal contact current
• requesting an investigation
• appointment of experts
• requesting a contested case hearing and
• a protocol to evaluate utility contribution to animal contact current

The MPSC is an agency within the Department of Labor & Economic Growth.

Case No. U-13934