Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Campbell is urging the state Department of Public Utilities to focus on affordability over company profits following an order for a 5% gas reduction deferral that has been heavily criticized by Bay Staters. Campbell has called for immediate and long-term rate relief measures to address high energy bills burdening ratepayers. The order requires gas companies to reduce energy bills by at least 5% for the rest of the peak season, with costs deferred to the off-peak season. Lawmakers and residents have expressed outrage over the order, with some describing it as a “slap in the face” for consumers facing significant bill increases. State Sen. Mark Montigny and Rep. Michael Chaisson have called for investigations into energy rate structures and criticized the DPU’s order as inadequate. The DPU has also requested utility companies to promote budget billing programs and consider longer-term changes to make energy bills more affordable. Critics attribute the price increases to state environmental initiatives and Governor Maura Healey’s policies. Residents have raised concerns over electricity costs and called for transparency and reevaluation of rates.
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