42 U.S.C. § 6805: Grants for State consumer protection offices by Secretary

make general factual assessments of the impact of proposed rate changes and other proposed regulatory actions upon all affected consumers; assist consumers in the presentation of their positions before utility regulatory commissions; and advocate, on its own behalf, a position which it determines represents the position most advantageous to consumers, taking into account developments in rate design reform. Grants pursuant to subsection (a) of this section shall be made only to States which furnish such assurances as the Secretary may require that funds made available under such section will be in addition to, and not in substitution for, funds made available to offices of consumer services from other sources. Assistance may be provided under this section to an office of consumer services established by the Tennessee Valley Authority, if such office is operated independently of the Tennessee Valley Authority.