As a married woman caring for a heart patient and an elderly mother, life is already challenging enough. We are a one-income household, and the burden of ever-increasing utility costs imposed by DTE is making it exceedingly difficult to make ends meet. Utilities are not a luxury; they are necessities, essential for our daily survival and maintaining the health and well-being of our loved ones.

Energy is a fundamental human need in today’s world—providing heat, powering vital medical equipment, and ensuring a safe and comfortable home environment. However, DTE's persistent increase in energy rates and extra fees is pushing families like mine to the edge of financial instability. According to [source], the average household energy bill has increased by [percentage] over the past [time period], an unsustainable rise that particularly affects low-income families and those with medical necessities.

With Michigan experiencing severe weather conditions, the demand for adequate heating in winter cannot be overstated. For those of us with health vulnerabilities, the stakes are even higher. The rising costs make it almost impossible to keep up, threatening our ability to maintain basic living standards.

We are not asking for freebies; we are asking for fairness. DTE has a responsibility to its consumers not as profit-driven entities but as providers of an essential service. We urge DTE to reconsider its pricing policies and halt any further increases in fees. Moreover, we are calling for the introduction of subsidy programs or price freezes for households with special needs or those under a certain income threshold.

Let's unite to demand change. Sign this petition to ensure that every Michigander, regardless of income or health status, can afford their essential utilities without sacrificing their well-being or dignity.