On hold: Bill to address overcharging of consumers by water utilities

An Illinois state senator has placed legislation to regulate private water utilities on hold.

The third reading deadline for Senate Bill 75 was extended to May 9th, but Des Plaines Democrat Laura Murphy said talks will continue after the General Assembly’s spring session.

The measure would require water utility shareholders to pay more than consumers for new acquisitions. It would also end Qualifying Infrastructure Plant surcharges.

Murphysboro Republican Senator Terri Bryant asked Murphy to reconsider an amendment that removed a referendum requirement for private utilities to acquire municipal water and sewer systems.

Illinois American Water president Rebecca Losli told the Senate Energy and Public Utilities Committee she opposes SB 75.

Story from Illinois Radio Network