Stop PSO From Unjust Electric Rate Hikes in Oklahoma!

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The Issue

I'm here in Tulsa, dealing with a situation that feels absolutely ridiculous. Our electric bill this month has ballooned to be more than our rent. Public Service Company of Oklahoma (PSO) did send letters hinting at rate increases, but I assumed they were talking about a small change. Instead, we're faced with something that's practically impossible to manage. I earn a decent income, yet even for my family, this isn't sustainable. It's unfathomable how PSO expects us to keep up with this.
Recently, I took a trip downtown and noticed the PSO building was heavily fortified, almost like a government building. While the security there might not be directly linked to the rate hikes, it sure paints a picture of a company bracing for a backlash. These increases are absurd, especially after the majority of the state voted against a minimum wage hike. Imagine what this means for families earning even less. If I can't manage, it's hard to see how others can.
Electricity is an essential utility, yet it’s turned into a financial burden that so many of us in Tulsa can't ignore. The rising costs are hurting our community and stress is mounting for families. In a city where we're already seeing stagnation on wage growth, piling these charges on top of an already challenging economic situation is just unfair.
It's crucial that we stand together to demand transparency and fair practices from PSO. They're increasing rates without considering the impact on everyday people. We need change. We need accountability. Help us advocate for reasonable electric rates by signing this petition. Together, we can push for a fair review of these hikes and work towards solutions that don't force us to choose between basic utilities and other essentials. Let's urge PSO to rethink their policies and consider the welfare of Tulsa families. Sign the petition and let’s make a difference. ****Many people have reached out from all over the state, this now includes ALL of Oklahoma! 

The Decision Makers

Oklahoma Corporation Commission
Oklahoma Corporation Commission
Responded
Thank you for reaching out and for providing the Oklahoma Corporation Commission with an opportunity to respond. The Commission recognizes the concerns Oklahomans have expressed about the impact of higher electric bills on families and businesses across the state. Affordability, reliability and the effect utility costs have on customers are important considerations in the regulatory process. Because the current PSO rate case is still pending, the merits of this Petition will not be addressed at this time, but it should not be interpreted as a lack of concern about the impact utility costs have on Oklahomans. Oklahoma's three elected Corporation Commissioners will ultimately reach a decision in the pending PSO rate case based upon the evidence, testimony and official record developed through the Commission's public regulatory process. Public Service Company of Oklahoma is a regulated electric utility. Changes to regulated rates are subject to review by the Oklahoma Corporation Commission through a public process in which the utility must provide evidence supporting its request. Commission staff and other parties may review that evidence, submit testimony, challenge costs and recommendations, and participate in proceedings before the Commission. It is also important to distinguish between rates currently appearing on customer bills and a final decision by the Commission. In some circumstances, Oklahoma law allows a regulated utility to place requested rates into effect on an interim basis while a rate case remains under review. Those interim rates do not represent a final determination by the Commission, and are implemented subject to refund. The Commission must still consider the evidence and official record developed in the case before making its final decision, which may result in rates that differ from those being collected on an interim basis. The Commission encourages Oklahomans to remain engaged in the regulatory process and to follow proceedings involving their utility. Information about cases, Commission meetings and opportunities for public participation is available through the Oklahoma Corporation Commission’s website. [Note: The Change.org Civic Engagement Team reaches out to decision makers to let them know about petitions in their community and to help facilitate engagement with supporters. The above was an email response we received regarding this petition.]
Oklahoma Corporation Commission
3 Members
Brian Bingman
Oklahoma Corporation Commission
Todd Hiett
Oklahoma Corporation Commission
Kim David
Oklahoma Corporation Commission

Supporter Voices

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