AARP Commends Governor for First Step Towards Reforming the ICC

Group Calls on State Senate to Confirm Appointment of Consumer Advocate

SPRINGFIELD, Ill., Oct. 29 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ — With utility companies back at the trough seeking multimillion dollar rate increases, consumers need to have their interests represented with the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC). Joined by state legislators, AARP today commended the Governor for taking a first step towards reforming the ICC, while at the same time urged him to continue ensuring Illinoisans have access to affordable utilities.

“In these tough economic times, utility bills can break a family’s budget,” said AARP Illinois volunteer Dean Clough. “We urge the Governor to continue bringing reform to the ICC, so that consumers are fairly represented, and decisions are duly balanced.”

AARP commended Governor Pat Quinn for appointing consumer John Colgan to fill a vacant position at the ICC. The Association also urged the State Senate to confirm this appointment, which is a positive step toward balancing the interests of utility companies with those of the public.

“The consumers of Illinois lack real choices in many circumstances when it comes to their utility providers so it is very important that the Illinois Commerce Commission is able to weigh the impact any utility rate increases would have on the public,” State Rep. John Bradley (D-Marion) said. “Having a fully operational Commission is essential to making sure that consumers’ voices are heard before any rate request decisions are made.”

With Ameren seeking a $226 million rate increase, a year after getting a $162 million increase, AARP is working with other consumer advocates, state legislators and the Attorney General to urge the ICC to reject the request.

In the current recession, further utility rate increases can have a devastating impact on the economies of older residents, and low-income individuals and families. Older adults spend nearly a quarter of their income on utility costs. According to a recent AARP survey, almost half of people aged 50 and older said the economic downturn has made it harder for them to pay their utility bills.

“Illinois consumers have had enough with utility companies that seek further rate hikes, while continuing to post record profits,” added Clough.

SOURCE AARP Illinois