A New Voice for Consumers on Utility Issues

Source: AARP.org | December 14, 2007

This year, consumers in Illinois were hit with the largest electric rates hike in the history of the state. AARP led the charge in fighting against those rate increases and delivered reforms that significantly reduced the burden on consumers. As part of the AARP-supported reform package, Illinois consumers will now have a stronger voice in the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) - using the power of grassroots advocacy to fight for fairer utility rates.

Beginning Dec. 10, Illinois residents will have a greater opportunity to make their voice heard at the ICC during regularly scheduled meetings. To allow the public to speak up on issues of concern, each meeting will now include time for public comment - where any person wishing to address the Commission may do so. Consumers will also be able to make presentations to state their case, by submitting a written request to the Chief Clerk of the Commission. Other provisions of the law allow written statements to be submitted to the ICC, taping or filming of ICC meetings and a feedback tool on the ICC's web site.

Both Ameren and ComEd recently announced that they plan to increase rates again in 2008 - another hard hit to consumers across Illinois who struggled to afford their electric bills this year. This new law is critical to ensuring that consumers have a voice in utility issues - Illinois cannot afford to face another electric rate crisis.

The ICC is planning to hold public hearings across the state on proposed Ameren and ComEd service increases and consumers will now have more access and greater ability to express their concerns, viewpoints, and feedback. AARP encourages Illinois residents to speak up for fair utility rates and service in Illinois. Make your voice heard.