Pryor looks forward to collaboration on utility affordability bill

Today, Jan. 13, the House Committee on Energy, Utilities and Telecommunications heard testimony on House Bill 1002 which addresses utility affordability. Bringing down the cost of utilities was a major portion of the House Democrats’ 2026 Working Hoosiers Agenda as Hoosiers across the state face record-high energy costs and rate increases. HB 1002 will be up for amendments and a vote at the next committee meeting. 

State Rep. Cherrish Pryor (D-Indianapolis), House Democrat Floor Leader and a member of the House Committee on Energy, Utilities and Telecommunications, issued the following statement: 

“I am glad that my colleagues across the aisle have acknowledged the affordability crisis Hoosiers face when it comes to utilities. While House Bill 1002 is a step in the right direction, we have an opportunity here to provide real, substantial relief for ratepayers. We can start by truly holding utilities responsible for the service they provide.

"Eliminating excessive reconnection fees should also be a priority. Reconnects are now done with the push of a button, so there is no need to charge people when service can be reconnected by someone while sitting at their desk. Disconnections should not be allowed to happen when temperatures reach levels that are dangerous to human health. 

“Additionally, we should set up an assistance program for vulnerable Hoosiers during the hottest months of the year like we have for the coldest months of the year. This summer, we saw dangerously high temperatures for several weeks at a time in Central Indiana. 

“I am glad the bill was held to allow time for amendments. Addressing the rising cost of utilities is a major part of the House Democrats’ Working Hoosiers Agenda, as well as my own legislative priorities. I look forward to continuing to work on this bill in the coming weeks.”