Pryor makes good on promise, offers amendments to lower utility costs

Today, Feb. 19, State Rep. Cherrish Pryor (D-Indianapolis) offered amendments on Senate Bill 247 that would help Hoosiers struggling with the ever-rising cost of utilities. Pryor’s amendments would create a one year freeze on utilities increasing their rates or charging reconnection fees. Providing utility relief was one of the key policy priorities on House Democrats’ Economic Freedom Agenda. These amendments were blocked on procedural grounds.  

“Right now, Hoosiers are literally struggling to keep the lights on. In the last year, every single one of Indiana’s big five utilities have filed for a rate increase. On average, Hoosiers are paying nearly double for their utilities compared to households in 2000. Additionally, residents are being forced to pay punitive, predatory fees up to $250 for reconnections, even if they are not at fault. For a family living paycheck to paycheck, what are they supposed to substitute to make ends meet? Food? Medication?

“Unlike other industries that are subject to the natural rules of the free market, Hoosiers have no choice to take their business elsewhere in the regulated monopoly system that Indiana utilities operate in. If consumers have nowhere to turn when they are dissatisfied with the cost or service of their utilities, it is up to us as lawmakers to protect their wallets and their wellbeing. 

“At the start of this session, my fellow House Democrats and I vowed our commitment to granting all Hoosiers economic freedom. Part of that promise was to fight for freedom from utility companies benefiting from Hoosiers despite record profits.”