McHenry Times

Jerry Evans, the Republican candidate for the 11th Congressional District, is speaking out against the recommended increase in natural gas prices by state officials in Illinois. 

He argues that such a move would impose additional financial burdens on residents and calls for lower gas taxes to alleviate the economic strain on families.

“I just read that state officials are recommending raising the price of natural gas which means people all over Illinois will experience higher prices of utilities starting next year,” Evans said on Facebook. “With people already struggling due to inflation and price increases, now is not the time to continue making it harder for Americans to live. I believe we can do better for the people of Illinois. It’s time to lower gas taxes to help families to thrive.”

According to Capitol News Illinois, Illinois state officials have recommended an increase in gas prices for approximately 4.1 million consumers, a decision expected to be finalized by year-end. This recommendation, made by administrative judges at the Illinois Commerce Commission, will impact customers of Ameren Illinois, Nicor Gas, Peoples Gas, and North Shore Gas. The proposed rate hikes have drawn criticism from consumer advocates who argue that utilities are spending money irresponsibly. However, gas companies defend their requested increases by citing infrastructure spending necessary for safety and federal compliance-related regulations. (Source)

Energy bills for downstate Ameren customers have already been skyrocketing and doubled in early 2022 amid blackout increases after Pritzker signed legislation creating shortfalls in energy production. 

“Some grid operators blamed coal plant retirements, pointed to state policy changes like Illinois’ nation-leading Climate and Equitable Jobs Act, and promoted fossil fuels as a reliability solution,” Meghan Hassett, Midwest Campaign Manager for the Center for Policy Advocacy, posted in a blog for the Natural Resources Defense Council.

The 11th Congressional District, which Evans is running to represent, encompasses most of McHenry and Kane Counties and parts of Boone, Lake, DeKalb, DuPage, Cook, and Will Counties. The district is currently represented by U.S. Rep. Bill Foster (D-IL). (Source)