This bill would prohibit electrical corporations from proposing systemwide rate increases exceeding the inflation rate in general rate cases, unless the Public Utilities Commission specifically approves higher increases for safety improvements, grid modernization, or rising fuel/commodity costs. While maintaining the commission’s authority to ensure just and reasonable rates, the measure creates a new inflation-based cap on utility rate hikes with limited exceptions. Violations of commission orders enforcing this prohibition would be punishable as crimes under the Public Utilities Act, potentially creating state-mandated local costs, though the bill specifies no reimbursement is required. The legislation aims to constrain utility rate increases while preserving flexibility for essential infrastructure and cost-driven adjustments.