Burton comments on IURC ruling approving CenterPoint’s proposed electrical utility rate increase

Today, Feb. 3, the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (IURC) ruled in favor of CenterPoint Energy’s proposed electrical utility rate increase, which will raise customer bills by $35 to $50 per month. CenterPoint Energy is the primary provider of electricity and natural gas services for Evansville, Indiana.  

State Rep. Alex Burton (D-Evansville) released the following statement on the ruling:

“Energy utility costs are already a major burden for families, especially in Evansville, where we’re facing the combined challenge of rising energy prices and increasing costs of living. With this electrical rate increase, many of our residents will be hit even harder.

“While there is no simple solution to reducing energy costs, I’m committed to exploring every possible avenue to help alleviate this pressure on our community. I will continue to work with the IURC to ensure that they understand the impact these rate hikes have on local families and the broader Evansville economy. We need to ensure that energy becomes more affordable for everyone, and I’m focused on expanding energy options and pursuing innovative policies that help achieve that goal.”

Burton comments on House Bill 1007

HB 1007 would further place the cost of energy system upgrades on consumers

Yesterday, Jan. 21, the House Committee on Utilities, Energy and Telecommunications heard House Bill (HB) 1007. HB 1007 gives a state tax credit for manufacturing small modular nuclear reactors in Indiana. It also outlines a process for energy companies to get approval from the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (IURC) for projects meeting growing demand, large customers, or new generation plans. The bill sets rules for approvals, cost recovery and allows utilities to seek approval to cover development costs for these reactors.

State Rep. Alex Burton (D-Evansville) released the following statement on HB 1007:

“We cannot attract people or businesses without addressing our high energy and utility costs. While I appreciate the author’s efforts to bring diverse energy options to Indiana, there are significant risks, primarily with the potential financial burden on working and aging Hoosiers, with no guarantee of success.“

Burton files HB 1349 in effort to create greater housing stability for Hoosiers

This week kicked off the official start of the 2025 legislative session. State Rep. Alex Burton (D-Evansville) has filed House Bill 1349, which would require the Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority (IHCDA) to provide detailed information on its housing stability programs within its annual report. 

Burton released the following statement regarding HB 1349:

“With the skyrocketing cost of housing, many Hoosier families are struggling to find safe, quality and affordable homes. It’s crucial we have a clear understanding of how our existing housing programs are impacting families in need. To effectively address Indiana's housing shortage, we must increase state investment, continue to align housing and economic development efforts, and tailor programs to meet Hoosier’s unique needs. This particular piece of legislation will help us better understand existing state program effectiveness. And, if needed, we can make the necessary adjustments to best serve all Hoosiers and their housing needs, including first-time homebuyers.”

Burton sworn in as Indiana House District 77 Representative

Today, Nov. 19, State Rep. Alex Burton (D-Evansville) was sworn into the Indiana House of Representatives. A former Evansville City Councilman, Burton is a seasoned community advocate for neighborhood revitalization, equity, food access, youth development and housing. 

Burton released the following statement regarding today’s swearing-in ceremony:

"As a newly sworn-in state representative, I want families in Evansville and throughout Indiana to know that they have a champion at the table. Too many Hoosier families are struggling to get by, and our focus in the legislature ought to be about making life better for everyone, not further dividing our communities with hot-button issues that have little impact on their lives. From increasing access to safe, quality and affordable housing to creating pathways to better career opportunities and higher wages, we have our work cut out for us in the state legislature, and I'm ready to get to work.

"I look forward to collaborating with my colleagues in the Indiana House Democratic Caucus as well as lawmakers across the aisle to make Indiana a more prosperous, inviting state for all. It is an honor to serve House District 77 and an honor to be joined by my family today as I begin my new role."