Rep. Troy issues statement after PUCO approves FirstEnergy settlement requiring refunds for customers

COLUMBUS – State Rep. Daniel P. Troy (D-Willowick) issued the following statement after the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) approved a $306 million settlement last Wednesday that would require FirstEnergy to refund customers that were improperly charged.

"Since 2009, utility ratepayers have been improperly charged more than $1.5 billion by corporate utility companies. As both a member of the House Public Utilities Committee and a firm believer in looking out for the interests of everyday people, I find this unacceptable.

“The recent decision by the PUCO was long overdue and is certainly a step in the right direction. During my return to Columbus, I've worked in a bipartisan fashion to protect Ohio's consumers, including working with Rep. Lanese to introduce HB 260, which mandates refunds for all improperly charged utility consumers and prevents utility companies from favoring wealthy shareholders over struggling ratepayers.

“I believe that our bill served as a catalyst for the PUCO's decision to begin refunding ratepayers, and I look forward to continuing to represent the best interests of Ohio's families, seniors, and working people."

HB 260 is currently being considered in the House Public Utilities Committee.