RATE ASSISTANCE AND COST REIMBURSEMENT.

(a) The governing body of a municipality participating in or conducting a ratemaking proceeding may engage rate consultants, accountants, auditors, attorneys, and engineers to: (1) conduct investigations, present evidence, and advise and represent the governing body; and (2) assist the governing body with litigation or a gas utility ratemaking proceeding before a regulatory authority or court. (b) The gas utility in the ratemaking proceeding shall reimburse the governing body of the municipality for the reasonable cost of the services of a person engaged under Subsection (a) to the extent the applicable regulatory authority determines reasonable.