Colorado and Connecticut saved residents hundreds of thousands of dollars on their utility bills

Utility bills are climbing across the U.S., but costs like lobbying fees and corporate advertising are often hidden in those charges. A recent report highlights how some states are starting to tackle this issue, banning utilities from passing on these expenses to customers. In Colorado, Connecticut, and Maine, new laws are already helping residents save significant amounts. As more lawmakers recognize the burden on consumers, the conversation around utility accountability is gaining momentum. Savvy consumers are increasingly asking how their states can follow suit.

Further, the issue calls attention to a noteworthy dichotomy developing. Local municipalities are increasingly hand-cuffed when it comes to advocating for themselves during legislative sessions. But corporate utilities simply package the cost into their services and ask nicely for a rate change. By restricting our local governments, it seems like we’re shooting ourselves in the foot. By ignoring utilities doing the same; we’re staring to look like hypocrites. Grsist has the full story on what’s happening in Maine, Colorado, and Connecticut.

Bill would bar Iowa cities, counties, schools from using tax dollars to hire lobbyists

Akielly Hu

Grist

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