Assemblymember Kevin Cahill (D - Ulster, Dutchess), Chair of the Assembly Energy Committee, released a letter to the Public Service Commission reinforcing his strong opposition to the Joint Proposal agreed to by Central Hudson Gas and Electric, Department of Public Service Staff and large industrial users to raise gas and electric delivery rates by nearly $40 million over the next three years.

"The rate increases included in this plan are unjustified, excessive and unduly burdensome. The proposal provides no safety or security for the average customer," said Assemblymember Cahill. "The Commission should reject the Joint Proposal and require the full litigation of the one year tariff filed by the utility last July. The outcome should be a plan that assures a balanced rate and a fiscally stable Central Hudson while also taking into account the extremely difficult times households and small businesses are experiencing in this fragile economy."

Assemblymember Cahill's comments followed testimony he delivered at the public hearing held in Kingston on March 11th. In addition to calling for the rejection of the rate plan, the Assemblymember also urged the Commission to support his legislation (A8722-B) designed to give the average consumer more influence in future proposals seeking to increase rates through the provision of intervenor funding.

The Commission will be accepting on the Joint Proposal through March 17th.