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SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 8-K
CURRENT REPORT
Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934
December 23, 1996
Date of Report (Date of earliest event reported)
COLUMBUS SOUTHERN POWER COMPANY
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Ohio 1-2680 31-4154203
(State or other jurisdiction of (Commission (I.R.S. employer
incorporation or organization) file number) identification no.)
215 North Front Street
Columbus, Ohio 43215
(Address of principal executive offices, including zip code)
(614) 464-7700
(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)
ITEM 5. Other Events
During the audit of Columbus Southern Power Company's ("CSPCo")
consolidated Federal income tax returns for the years 1991 through
1993, Internal Revenue Service ("IRS") agents requested a ruling
from their National Office that certain interest deductions related
to corporate owned life insurance claimed by CSPCo for these years
should be disallowed. On December 23, 1996, CSPCo filed a brief
with the National Office of the IRS refuting the agents' position.
Although adjustments have not been proposed, a disallowance of
these interest deductions through December 31, 1996 would have an
adverse effect on earnings of approximately $34 million (including
interest). CSPCo believes it will ultimately prevail on this issue
and would vigorously contest any adjustments which may be assessed.
Accordingly, CSPCo has not recorded any amounts with respect to
such matters.
SIGNATURE
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of
1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on
its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
COLUMBUS SOUTHERN POWER COMPANY
(Registrant)
/s/ A. A. Pena
A. A. Pena, Treasurer
Dated: January 21, 1997