I know we've had colder temperatures this winter, but this seems high. You are not alone in your observation, or in the dramatic increase in your gas utility bill. Natural gas prices have gone up more than 70 percent in the last year. Rising heating costs across the state are creating significant hardships on almost everyone, particularly low-income families and residents living on fixed incomes. I believe Pennsylvania must act soon in dealing with the dramatic rise in natural gas costs, and will soon reintroduce legislation that would combat the problem.
Current law requires utility companies to set rates that are reasonable and just.
But reasonable and just to one person could be unreasonable an unjust to another. Each area of the state has a unique set of circumstances and needs with respect to temperatures and utility rates. I believe we need to strengthen the factors the Public Utility Commission must take into account when considering a proposed rate increase. My legislation would do that by adding affordability as a factor. When considering an increase, the PUC would be required to consider the ability of customers to pay their utility bills while maintaining an acceptable standard of living.