State Senate Votes to Ban Variable Electric Rates

The Connecticut Senate has voted to ban variable-rate electric contracts for residential customers after some complained rates skyrocketed after low introductory costs.

Senators voted unanimously Wednesday in favor of the bipartisan compromise. The vote followed more than six hours of extended debate by the minority Republicans, who were angered that the majority Democrats had not planned to call some bills the GOP supports.

The bill now moves to the House of Representatives.

Senate President Martin Looney said senior citizens have been vulnerable to these contracts with electric suppliers. He said the consumers were lured by cheap teaser rates.

Not all private electric companies offer variable rate contracts. Some have urged lawmakers not to limit consumer's choices by passing this legislation.

If ultimately signed into law, the ban would take effect Oct. 1.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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