69-3-304. Temporary approval of rate increases or decreases. The commission may, in its discretion, temporarily approve increases or decreases pending a hearing or final decision. If the final decision is to disapprove an increase, the commission may order a rebate to all consumers for the amount collected retroactive to the date of the temporary approval. If the final decision is to disapprove a decrease, the commission may order a surcharge to be paid by all consumers for the amount not collected retroactive to the date of the temporary approval. The commission shall order interest to be paid on a rebate or surcharge as determined by the commission. An order of the commission approving or denying a temporary rate increase or decrease shall be based upon consistent standards appropriate for the nature of the case pending and shall be an intermediate agency action subject to judicial review under the Montana Administrative Procedure Act.

     History: En. Sec. 11, Ch. 52, L. 1913; re-en. Sec. 3891, R.C.M. 1921; re-en. Sec. 3891, R.C.M. 1935; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 115, L. 1975; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 435, L. 1977; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 467, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 70-113(part); amd. Sec. 7, Ch. 588, L. 1983.