State Representative Dave Severin announced on Apr. 17 that he is supporting new legislation aimed at increasing transparency around electricity charges and addressing rising energy costs in Illinois. Severin, who represents the 116th House District, spoke following a Capitol news conference where he raised concerns about current state energy policies and their impact on families and employers.
The issue comes as Illinois faces growing challenges with energy affordability and supply. Severin said, “I am a sponsor of legislation that would end the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act, as it is part of the Green New Scam that is devastating family budgets by causing the price of electricity to soar out of control.” He called for removing deadlines for closing natural gas and coal-fired power plants to help ensure grid reliability.
A recent announcement from an Elwood, Illinois energy plant revealed plans to close ahead of state-mandated deadlines set by CEJA and relocate operations to Texas. According to Severin, experts have warned that without policy changes, Illinois could face an energy shortage within five years.
Severin also highlighted his efforts as ranking member on the House Energy & Environment Committee. He said he previously called for hearings into last May’s large electricity price increases but noted those hearings did not take place. Emphasizing consumer rights, Severin stated, “The people of Illinois deserve to know how energy policies are impacting their utility bills,” adding that greater transparency is needed.
Severin reported passing HB 5524 out of the House this week. The bill would require the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) to maintain a public website detailing various electric utility charges starting Jan. 1, 2027. This site would show which funds go to the state or remain with utilities so consumers can better understand their bills. “Too often, customers see line items and fees that are confusing or unclear,” Severin said. “This legislation shines a light on those charges and ensures consumers have easy access to straightforward, accurate information.”
Severin was elected in 2023 as a Republican representative for Illinois’ 116th House District after replacing David Friess according to Ballotpedia.
Broader implications from these proposed changes could affect both household budgets across Illinois and future decisions about state energy infrastructure.
