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Congressman Josh Riley is actively opposing Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corp.'s proposed rate hikes, which would affect over 100,000 households in his district. Riley, who represents the 19th Congressional District, filed an official opposition response to the proposal on Wednesday (July 2). The proposal, if approved by the Public Service Commission, would allow Central Hudson to incrementally increase rates over three years.
Riley argues that many residents are already struggling to pay their bills, and the rate hikes would exacerbate their financial burdens. Central Hudson, however, promises that any increases would be minimal. The company has faced scrutiny before; a state appeals court recently upheld a ruling preventing Central Hudson from charging customers for storm-related credits and reimbursements, as reported by the Daily Freeman.
The Public Service Commission will review the proposal, and its decision will determine whether the rate hikes will proceed. Riley's opposition highlights ongoing concerns about utility costs and their impact on households in Kingston.