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TRENTON, NJ – New Jersey Senate Republican Leader Anthony M. Bucco (R-25) is warning residents that a proposal under consideration by the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (BPU) could lead to higher electric bills for many households and businesses.

The BPU, composed of appointees of Gov. Phil Murphy, is reviewing a report on “driving equity” in energy rates, which could adjust utility bills based on income levels. The policy would lower costs for lower-income households while raising rates for middle- and moderate-income families.

This approach follows a similar move in California last year.

Bucco criticized the plan, calling it a “redistribution tax” that would unfairly increase financial pressure on residents already struggling with high energy costs.

“Because of progressive Democrat policies that have been blocking commonsense energy expansion for the past eight years, New Jersey families are already grappling with some of the highest energy costs in the nation,” he said.

The senator argued that instead of shifting costs, the state should focus on increasing power generation through conventional sources like natural gas to reduce energy prices.

He also warned that if the proposal is approved, it could set New Jersey on a financially unsustainable path.

“New Jersey is already on a dangerous path thanks to Trenton Democrats, but if this redistribution tax goes through, it will be simply unsustainable,” Bucco added. “Ratepayers are catching on. This income-based utility rates scheme is just another way for Democrats to shift the financial load onto hardworking New Jerseyans.”

With energy bills expected to rise at least 20% this summer, the proposal is likely to spark strong debate among lawmakers and residents.

Key Points

The New Jersey BPU is considering a plan to adjust energy rates based on income levels.
Sen. Anthony M. Bucco warns the proposal could increase bills for middle-income families.
Energy costs in New Jersey are already among the highest in the nation, with a 20% increase expected this summer.

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