A bill known as the “Generating Arkansas Jobs Act” has advanced in the Senate committee, allowing utilities to make capital investments without Public Service Commission approval and charge higher rates. Sen. Jonathan Dismang and Rep. Les Eaves, sponsors of the bill, argue that increased electricity production is necessary due to rising demand. While some economic development officials support the bill citing the need for power availability for attracting industries, members of an electric coop in north-central Arkansas oppose it, expressing concerns about potential overcharging by utilities. State officials, including former Entergy CEO Hugh McDonald, have been involved in shaping the bill, which has faced criticism for potentially favoring utilities over customers. The Energy and Policy Institute has labeled SB307 as a problematic bill, accusing utilities of using customer utility bills to fund infrastructure without reducing their return on equity. Despite the backlash, Governor Sarah Sanders has endorsed the bill, emphasizing the importance of investing in energy infrastructure while maintaining regulatory authority. The bill’s supporters argue that it will enable utilities to manage investments more efficiently, while opponents raise concerns about its impact on customer costs. The future of the bill remains uncertain as it moves through the legislative process.
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