Growing up in southern Indiana, I never questioned the utility bills that arrived at my doorstep each month. However, recently, those bills have tripled, despite no significant increase in my electricity usage. This isn't just my story—it's the reality for countless residents across southern Indiana.

The stark increase in bills is attributed to the monopoly CenterPoint Energy holds in our region, and the Indiana Utility Commission's unwarranted approval of their rate hikes. But here's the real issue: the Commission isn't acting in the community's interest. It seems their decisions align more with CenterPoint's bottom line. Rumors and allegations suggest under-the-table operations, where bribes drive the Commission's votes in favor of excessive rate increases.

This isn't mere speculation. Various reports highlight how CenterPoint's investments and business decisions are passed onto us, the customers. We bear the brunt of these decisions, while CenterPoint and its investors enjoy the financial rewards. We're paying for their operations, their growth, and should they choose to sell these assets, profits line their pockets, not ours.

This situation is unsustainable and unjust. We cannot allow a single corporation and a seemingly compromised public institution to dictate our economic welfare. It’s time for us to rise and demand transparency and accountability from the Indiana Utility Commission. They are supposed to regulate CenterPoint for the public good, not aid them in extortionate rate hikes.

We need an independent investigation into the Indiana Utility Commission's ties with CenterPoint. There must be clear, publicly accessible criteria for rate approvals, and they must actively engage with the community before any decisions on rate changes. Moreover, it's imperative that our voices are prioritized, ensuring safe, affordable, and reliable energy for every residence.

Join me in calling for meaningful change by signing this petition. Demand that the Indiana Utility Commission and CenterPoint start putting the community first. Your signature is a step towards an equitable energy future in Indiana. Sign now to stop unwarranted rate hikes and to hold our utility regulators accountable.