In response to a recent proposal from New Jersey Natural Gas to increase rates for customers, the legislators at the 10th District have called on the Board of Public Utilities to oppose any increase during this economically troubling time. Senator Jim Holzapfel and Assemblymen Greg McGuckin and John Catalano are expressing their concerns over the crippling effects this rate hike will have on their constituents, particularly senior citizens and those struggling to overcome financial hardships related to the pandemic.

In response to a recent proposal from New Jersey Natural Gas to increase rates for customers, Sen. Jim Holzapfel, Asm. Greg McGuckin, and Asm. John Catalano have called on the Board of Public Utilities to oppose any increase during this economically troubling time. (SenateNJ.com)

The 10th District Legislators have released the following statement on this issue which they believe will create another financial burden for struggling families.

“The proposed rate increase by New Jersey Natural Gas couldn’t have come at a worse time,” stated Senator Holzapfel. “We are in the midst of a financial crisis because of Governor Murphy’s extended shutdowns and many of our middle class families and senior citizens are living on fixed incomes. This proposal should be thrown out immediately by the Board of Public Utilities and not be considered until this crisis is over.”

“This increase is not based on usage thus taking away and drastically limiting the customer’s ability to control the cost of their bill,” continued Assemblyman McGuckin. “Our delegation is opposing the 24.8% rate increase on New Jersey Natural Gas customers which will create another unnecessary financial burden for those struggling to make ends meet.”

“As a utility company it is the utility’s job to maintain and provide adequate and safe service for its customers without shifting that burden to the ratepayer,” added Assemblyman Catalano. “The BPU needs to reject this proposal immediately and spare our constituents the stress of another increase on one of their monthly bills.”