DELAWARE — A new proposal in Delaware aims to reduce electric and gas bills by as much as 20% for low-income households, but the initiative is drawing criticism over how the costs would be distributed. The legislation, introduced by Democratic lawmakers, would… The post Delaware Bill Seeks Utility Discounts for Low-Income Families, Faces Pushback appeared first on TV Delmarva .
DELAWARE — A new proposal in Delaware aims to reduce electric and gas bills by as much as 20% for low-income households, but the initiative is drawing criticism over how the costs would be distributed. The legislation, introduced by Democratic lawmakers, would extend utility bill discounts to residents who qualify for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program.
Households of four earning under approximately $72,000 annually would be eligible. To pay for the program, a surcharge would be added to bills across all customer types, potentially increasing monthly costs for other ratepayers.
Some Republican legislators are opposing the plan, saying it unfairly places the financial burden on middle-income families. Critics argue that the measure disregards usage levels and forces customers to pay more based on income brackets rather than energy consumption.
One concern raised by opponents is that the state recently approved a separate measure designed to aid low-income residents through existing environmental funds, which did not require additional charges for other customers.
Supporters of the bill contend it addresses a growing affordability issue for struggling households. A Democratic sponsor of the legislation says the measure is designed to ease rising living costs for vulnerable residents who are most affected by inflation and utility rate increases. The proposal is scheduled for a committee review in the near future, where it will face further discussion and potential amendments.
The post Delaware Bill Seeks Utility Discounts for Low-Income Families, Faces Pushback appeared first on TV Delmarva .
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