State Senator Henderson Addresses Ameren Rate Increases

Jefferson City, Mo. (KFMO) - Missouri State senator, Mike Henderson, is addressing electric rate increases from Ameren.

The company has increased rates by 12% and Henderson says he will continue to monitor the situation closely, advocate for rate payer protections, and press for more transparency from both utility companies and the Public Service Commission who approved the increase.

According to Henderson, the increase cuts into the budget of many people especially anyone on a fixed income and they shouldn't have to be in a position of choosing between electricity or food.

Henderson says the regulation, and closing, of some coal burning electric plants is also causing a rise in the cost of producing electricity. Henderson explains if families have concerns or are unable to pay utility bills, there are resources available.

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, or LIHEAP, is a federally funded program providing eligible households with financial help to pay for energy costs.

Visit the Missouri Department of Social Services’ website at mydss.mo.gov.

Other local resources include the East Missouri Action Agency and the United Way of St. Francois County.