spot_imgspot_img

Group wants to defeat Ameren right-of-first refusal bill

(The Center Square) – Legislation that opponents said would raise costs for electric customers in Illinois could be addressed during the upcoming fall veto session.

The bill would have given Ameren Illinois the right-of-first refusal on transmission line construction projects, thus eliminating the competitive bidding process.

Transmission line planning is big business, and opponents say banning competition is a surefire way to increase costs at the expense of utility customers.

Illinois lawmakers who approved the legislation on the last day of spring session argued the proposals would generate more utility worker union jobs in the state.

Gov. J.B. Pritzker issued an amendatory veto in August, striking out only the portion of the measure that deals with the right-of-first refusal.

“Competition is important and we want to keep costs down for our customers across the state and having a competitive environment helps do that,” said Pritzker.

Jason Heffley, the Illinois State Director for Americans for Prosperity, sent a letter to lawmakers urging opposition to the legislation.

“We wanted to put folks on notice that we are going to be pushing hard during the upcoming veto session to make sure that the veto is sustained or that the veto is not overridden,” said Heffley to The Center Square.

At least a dozen states have adopted laws that give local utilities a right-of-first refusal to build transmission line projects, including Iowa and Indiana.

Ameren has testified in other states considering similar legislation that the competitive bidding process leads to delays and cost overruns.

During the upcoming veto session in Springfield, lawmakers will have the option of accepting the governor’s changes, overriding the governor’s veto so that the bill becomes law, or letting the legislation go by the wayside.

DON’T MISS OUT

Be the first to know about the latest news, giveaways, events, and updates from The Black Chronicle!

We don’t spam! Read our privacy policy for more info.

spot_imgspot_img
spot_img

Hot this week

African and Caribbean Nations Call for Reparations for Slave Trade, Propose Global Fund

Nations across Africa and the Caribbean, deeply impacted by...

Health care company agrees to pay $22.5 million to settle claims of over billing

A health care company agreed to pay nearly $22.5...

Sports betting expert offers advice on paying taxes for gambling winnings

(The Center Square) – Tax season is underway, and...

Entertainment district benefits don’t outweigh the cost, economists say

(The Center Square) — Weeks later, after more details...

Business association ‘disappointed’ by WA L&I’s proposed workers comp rate hike

(The Center Square) – The Association of Washington Business...

Survey: Small business owners optimistic heading into holiday shopping season

(The Center Square) – Although a new survey reveals...

Delaware-based group spends thousands on candidates across Illinois

(The Center Square) – Several Illinois races are being...

Voters have high number of transit measures in 2024

Voters will decide on $59.2 billion in dedicated, multi-year...

Former Seattle Police Chief Adrian Diaz placed on administrative leave

(The Center Square) – Former Seattle Police Chief Adrian...

California goods inflation down, wages up, fueling possible housing bubble

(The Center Square) - According to new reports from...

Census: Arizona remains a top destination for moving Americans

(The Center Square)— New estimates from the U.S. Census...

Ohio school district adopts controversial ‘Grading for Equity’ policies

A school district outside Cleveland, Ohio, will have staff...

More like this
Related

Survey: Small business owners optimistic heading into holiday shopping season

(The Center Square) – Although a new survey reveals...

Delaware-based group spends thousands on candidates across Illinois

(The Center Square) – Several Illinois races are being...

Voters have high number of transit measures in 2024

Voters will decide on $59.2 billion in dedicated, multi-year...

Former Seattle Police Chief Adrian Diaz placed on administrative leave

(The Center Square) – Former Seattle Police Chief Adrian...