Lawmakers in statehouses across the country are pushing legislation to curb utilities spending ratepayer money on lobbying, expert testimony, advertising, and charitable giving amidst rising bills and scandals. At least a dozen states have considered bills to limit how utilities can spend customers’ money, with Louisiana opening a proceeding to investigate such spending. Michigan recently introduced legislation to ban utility political spending, joining states like Maine, Colorado, and Connecticut that have signed similar bills into law.
The Energy and Policy Institute, a watchdog group, has scrutinized how utilities use ratepayer money to influence legislation. Examples include a bribery scandal in Ohio involving FirstEnergy and Commonwealth Edison’s scheme in Illinois. Florida Power & Light is facing calls for a federal investigation over accusations of using political consultants. Other examples of questionable spending by utilities across the country have also been highlighted.
Despite the push for legislation, bills to curb utility influence spending can face tough opposition, as demonstrated in Virginia. The Edison Electric Institute and American Gas Association, representing utilities, assert that engaging in discussions with policymakers and regulators is essential for the industry. The American Gas Association did not respond to a request for comment.
A rally held by climate justice organizations took aim at energy company influence, calling attention to corporate sponsorship and lack of progress on renewable power at the National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners’ winter policy meeting. There is growing support for state legislative efforts to hold utilities accountable for their spending, with federal legislation introduced to prevent utility companies from using ratepayer dollars for political activities.
The public is increasingly vocal about the need to regulate utility spending, with regulators urged to take action to ensure transparency and accountability in the industry.
Source
Photo credit missouriindependent.com