SB 69-EXEMPT RENEWABLE ENERGY ELECTRIC PLANTS  1:31:25 PM CHAIR COSTELLO announced the consideration of SENATE BILL NO. 69 "An Act extending an exemption from regulation as a public utility for plants and facilities generating electricity entirely from renewable energy resources; and providing for an effective date." She noted that public testimony was closed and the intention was to hear from the sponsor and move the bill from committee. 1:31:47 PM SENATOR JOSH REVAK, speaking as the sponsor via teleconference, summarized that the bill is an [extension] of the exemption for small, private sector businesses from additional regulatory burden. He noted that Alaska is the only state that has this additional regulatory burden. 1:32:26 PM SENATOR GRAY-JACKSON noted the letter from the Alaska Power Association and expressed hope that as a representative of small electric utilities, APA would have an opportunity to address its concerns when the bill goes through the public process in the House. 1:33:37 PM SENATOR STEVENS joined the committee. CHAIR COSTELLO said she informed the sponsor of the letter from APA in opposition to SB 69. The letter arrived after public testimony closed but she committed to follow the bill through the House process. She listed the individuals online who were available to answer questions. 1:35:06 PM SENATOR HOLLAND noted that he talked to the sponsor about potentially removing the additional regulatory burden for all small businesses, not just the ones that sell renewable energy. He acknowledged that it was too late for the Senate to consider that in this legislation. CHAIR COSTELLO said the committee would be interested in pursuing that idea. SENATOR GRAY-JACKSON said she wanted to make sure the APA representative who was listening on line was aware of the next process for the bill. CHAIR COSTELLO explained that once the bill passes the Senate it goes to the House where it will go through the committee process and then the floor. She noted that the sponsor indicated he was willing to work with ATA during that process. 1:37:15 PM At ease 1:37:47 PM CHAIR COSTELLO reconvened the meeting and solicited a motion. 1:37:52 PM SENATOR HOLLAND moved to report SB 69, [work order 32- LS0432\A], from committee with individual recommendations and attached fiscal note(s). CHAIR COSTELLO found no objection and SB 69 was reported from the Senate Labor and Commerce Standing Committee.