PROVIDENCE, R.I. -??Governor Gina M. Raimondo??released the following statement responding to the Public Utilities Commission’s approval of National Grid’s electricity rate increase:
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“Hard-working, middle class Rhode Island families need relief. I am disappointed that Rhode Islanders’ electricity bills will be going up this winter.
I call on regulators, Grid and consumer advocates to work together to ensure that Rhode Island families have access to clean, reliable and affordable electricity.
For too long, Rhode Island’s economy was stuck in neutral and families were worried about their future.
Because of our hard work, there are more jobs in Rhode Island than ever before and working families are starting to feel more secure. This rate increase will create uncertainty for many Rhode Island families and seniors who live on fixed incomes.
In the months ahead, I will direct our regulators to complete a comprehensive review of the utility companies’ rates and ensure that Rhode Island consumers are paying a fair rate and not a penny more.”