Public Utilities Commission (PUC)

One Call Attorneys can provide invaluable assistance to businesses navigating the complex process of obtaining licensing authority from the Colorado Public Utilities Commission. The PUC, which oversees facilities and utilities in the state, is a crucial regulatory body for energy, water, and gas companies, as well as businesses seeking rail or transit permits. 

Unfortunately, dealing with the PUC can be daunting and intimidating, especially for those seeking a license in the highly competitive transportation industries of non-emergency medical transportation, taxi, sightseeing, and shuttle services. 

When you apply, it becomes public information that you’re trying to obtain a license. Other operators in the industry receive notice and can decide if they want to try to intervene to prevent your application from being approved. Applicants often face what is known as an “intervention.” These can come from community members or, more likely, competitors aggressively trying to prevent new entries into the market. 

Interventions require an evidentiary hearing, in which you must prove that there is, in fact, a public need that current license holders aren’t already filling. These hearings operate similarly to a trial because the proceedings have complex and highly specific rules and require that applicants submit exhibits, bring witnesses, submit evidence, and attend a hearing. Additionally, there is usually a tight timeline for this process, and if you lose the hearing, you won’t be granted a license to operate. 

Thus, when applying for a PUC permit, facing an intervention, or you want to intervene to protect your rights, the importance of having an experienced attorney by your side cannot be overstated. Their knowledge of the process and ability to prepare your application can significantly reduce the likelihood of an intervention. In the case of an intervention, they can expertly prepare your witnesses and evidentiary documents and represent you at the hearing. 

Attorneys at One Call Attorneys have deep expertise in navigating the PUC application and intervention process and are here to help you. Please contact a member of our team if you have questions or need representation in a Colorado PUC matter.