My Dear Constituents,

You should be you aware of two bills in the Maryland General Assembly that will increase your utility bills. I am sick and tired of government dictating how you have to spend the money you have worked hard to earn.    

HB 89 Gas Companies - Rate Regulation - Infrastructure Replacement Surcharge passed the House and the Senate last week. I stood up and implored my colleagues to vote NO because the charge will hurt the average Marylander and the economy.  By voting NO to HB 89, I continued my fight against excessive government intervention in our lives. Sadly, this bill represents another bailout for gas companies who have failed to invest in their infrastructure, forcing us to foot the bill.  

Another piece of legislation that I am disappointed to report will have a surcharge attached to it is HB 226 – Maryland Offshore Wind Energy Act of 2013.  HB 226 attaches a $1.50 charge on to your utility bill for the pleasure of having clean energy. Now $1.50 may not sound like a lot; however, the Democratic Leadership has furtively defined the “average residential customer” as anyone who uses 1,000 kWh or less of electricity per month.  

However, if you use more than 1,000kWh, say you use 1,500 kWh per month, you will end up paying $2.25 per month a 50% increase. Only the government can take away your money, give it someone else, and not call it stealing. I say keep your money, and spend it the way you see fit.

These are fees that you do not want and you do not need! I will continue to fight burdensome fees, as well as overwrought regulations that impede economic growth and prosperity.

With your help, we can win this fight!

Glen