Council members and residents press state action on utility bills as HB 1,002 moves to Senate
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Summary
Councilwoman Moldenhauer reported on HB 1,002 (Electric Utility Affordability Bill), warned the bill would auto‑enroll consumers in budget billing unless they opt out, said key accountability and transparency amendments were rejected, and urged residents to contact state officials; council members supported drafting a resolution to express concern to state leaders.
A wide-ranging discussion about utility rates and state action occupied a significant portion of the Feb. 3 Michigan City Common Council meeting.
Councilwoman Miss Moldenhauer told the council HB 1,002 had moved from the House to the Senate and reported several amendments that would have increased transparency, removed sales tax from utility charges and limited utility lobbying costs were rejected. She warned that, as written, the bill would automatically enroll all consumers in utility budget‑billing programs unless they opted out and said the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission appointment process now places appointment power with the governor.
"Residents shouldn't have to decide between heating or cooling their home, buying groceries, or paying for medication," Moldenhauer told the council, urging constituents to contact state legislators and the governor and sharing a petition titled 'Demand Indiana reduce utility rates.' She said she has worked with State Representative Randy Novak and Senator Rodney Pohl and encouraged residents to provide dollar amounts and hardship stories to the IURC and elected officials.
Several council members and the public endorsed drafting a council resolution to federal and state officials expressing concern about recent rate increases. Doctor Cora asked the city attorney to draft a resolution for the council to consider so the city can forward it to state lawmakers and the governor.
Council members discussed strategies for public engagement at IURC hearings and the need for coordinated attendance when regulatory hearings occur out of town. No formal legislative change originated from the council; members instructed staff and counsel to prepare a draft resolution and to continue outreach to state representatives.