Garden State Times

Senator Carmen Amato, Jr., Assemblyman Brian E. Rumpf, and Assemblyman Gregory E. Myhre have presented testimony to the Assembly Telecommunications and Utilities Committee regarding the rising electricity costs affecting District 9 residents. The delegation expressed concerns about the financial strain these increases place on constituents, particularly senior citizens and those on fixed incomes.

"In a state where the cost of living is already prohibitively high, these rate increases are pushing many residents into deeper financial distress, and it is unsustainable," stated the Delegation.

Assemblyman Rumpf addressed the committee to voice opposition to the rising electricity and natural gas rates. He urged the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (BPU) to protect consumers from these hikes. Rumpf criticized the state's Energy Master Plan as a contributing factor to affordability issues and advocated for increased investment in natural gas and nuclear energy.

The testimony highlights previous efforts by the delegation to oppose rate increases through letters sent to BPU earlier this year. It underscores that utility companies are passing costs onto consumers, which they describe as "unconscionable." The delegation also criticized state energy policies under Governor Murphy's administration for exacerbating affordability problems.

"We believe it is the core responsibility of this Legislature to reexamine its energy priorities to ensure affordable utility rates for all New Jerseyans," stated their written testimony.

The delegation emphasized their commitment to addressing rate increases and alleviating financial hardships faced by New Jersey residents. For further inquiries or comments from members of the 9th District Delegation, Chris Sivel can be contacted at [email protected].