Garden State Times

Senator Carmen Amato, Jr., along with Assemblymen Brian Rumpf and Gregory Myhre from New Jersey's 9th Legislative District, submitted testimony to the Senate Select and Assembly Telecommunications & Utilities Committees, discussing significant concerns over recent increases in utility rates.

The testimony highlighted that "drastic and unconscionable utility rate increases in both electricity and natural gas have created a full-blown crisis in New Jersey." According to the delegates, the financial strain on residents has necessitated state intervention, including the provision of financial relief such as utility rebates or credits and an immediate freeze on any further rate increases.

Hundreds of complaints from residents and petitions opposing the rate hikes were reported by the district office. The statement emphasized the hardship faced by senior citizens, many of whom are on fixed retirement incomes. These individuals are witnessing utility costs rise to levels reminiscent of much larger homes.

The legislators criticized the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities for allegedly authorizing the increases without adequately considering their impact on ratepayers. The testimony also touched on concerns regarding the state's offshore wind turbine projects, described as a failed initiative promoted by the Murphy Administration.

"Resources wasted and the time lost to the fixation on offshore wind turbine projects will continue to prove costly," they stated, urging a revision of the Energy Master Plan to focus on reducing utility rates for residents.

To counteract the issues, the legislators introduced the 'Small Modular Nuclear Energy Incentive Act,' which would prompt the Board of Public Utilities to consider constructing small modular nuclear reactors in New Jersey. They noted their longstanding opposition to the rate increases, having previously communicated their stance to the Board of Public Utilities and testified before relevant committees.

The delegation also mentioned their request for an 'Energy Assistance Utility Day,' held in Ocean County, which saw significant turnout and demonstrated the urgent need for solutions concerning utility affordability.

In concluding their testimony, the legislators called for bipartisan efforts to support those at risk of losing their homes due to financial burdens from utility bills, affirming their readiness to assist in resolving the ongoing crisis.

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