Ocean County Leader

Ocean County Commissioners Robert Arace and Jennifer Bacchione have expressed strong opposition to the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (BPU) for approving significant increases in electric rates. They argue that these hikes pose a serious threat to the financial stability of local residents.

"These utility rate hikes are unsustainable, unjustified, and downright predatory," Commissioner Arace stated. He highlighted the difficult choices residents face between paying their electric bills and affording essential items like groceries or medication. "This is unacceptable, and the BPU must be held accountable."

Commissioner Bacchione shared similar concerns, stressing the urgency for relief measures. "Our residents should not have to bear the burden of rising utility costs caused by poor decisions made at the state level," she said. She emphasized their commitment to advocating for policies prioritizing resident interests and ensuring transparency from utility companies.

In response to these challenges, Commissioners Arace and Bacchione support new legislation (S-4096 and A-5299) introduced by Senator Carmen Amato Jr., Assemblyman Brian Rumpf, and Assemblyman Gregory Myhre. The proposed bill aims to:

- Prohibit electric utilities from raising rates to cover smart meter installation costs.

- Require full disclosure of all rate increases, including details on amount, effective date, and impact on bills.

- Prevent service disconnections or late fees for customers affected by increases of 5% or more within six months.

These measures are deemed crucial as many Ocean County residents report substantial bill spikes following smart meter installations. The bill aligns with federal efforts led by Congressman Jeff Van Drew, reflecting a bipartisan push against corporate overreach by utility firms.

"New Jersey is in the middle of an affordability crisis, and yet the BPU continues to rubber-stamp excessive rate hikes with little transparency," Commissioner Arace remarked. He cited smart meters as an example of how residents face financial strain without adequate consideration.

Commissioner Bacchione added her voice: "It's time for the BPU to put people over profits and ensure that residents are not left to struggle under the weight of unfair rate hikes." Both commissioners urge immediate legislative action alongside a freeze on future rate increases until a transparent system is established.

They also encourage Ocean County residents to express their concerns directly to the BPU. "We stand with our state and federal legislators in this fight to protect New Jersey families, and we will not stop until we bring real relief to Ocean County," concluded Commissioner Arace.