Harder Takes Stand Against Rising Utility Costs with New Legislation

Amid growing concerns over the rising cost of living, Representative Josh Harder of California has taken a decisive stand with the introduction of the Stop the Hikes Act, aimed squarely at utility giant PGE. The legislation comes as a response to a series of rate increases by PGE, impacting families across the state. Harder, a moderate Democrat hailing from Stockton, is championing the cause of affordability, proposing that utility companies be restricted to only one rate hike per annum. This move is intended to shield families from the financial burden of what has been described as relentless price escalations.

Harder’s initiative is rooted in the alarming trend of PGE bills for many families doubling over the past decade, a period during which the utility company has also reported substantial profits. The Congressman’s stance is clear: “enough is enough – you can’t keep raising prices on families.” It’s a sentiment that resonates widely, reflecting a broader concern over affordability and the cost of basic services. This legislative effort is part of Harder’s ongoing commitment to consumer protection, following earlier efforts to guard against price gouging in times of emergency and to prioritize funding for essential infrastructure improvements.

The Stop the Hikes Act represents a significant push towards ensuring that utility rate increases are both justified and limited, aiming to bring about greater accountability from companies like PGE. As families continue to navigate the challenges of a fluctuating economy, measures like these signal a critical step towards protecting consumers from undue financial strain and ensuring that essential services remain accessible to all.