Editorial
Do you know what the business priorities are for this year’s legislative session?
For some, it’s tax credit reform.
For others, tax credit extensions.
For some, it’s restructuring the second injury fund; for others it’s restructuring the entire tax code.
The dyslexia of the business community is reflected in the eyes of our lawmakers. It’s every industry for itself. Add geography to the mix and the equation is more difficult to balance.
It the past, the result was paralysis
This year, there’s promise of legislative action. Will the business communith have the vision and discipline to unite behind a few reasonable objectives and demand overdue reforms?
The question is especially pertinent in the energy arena where electric utilities across the state seek a level playing field that allows them to charge consumers smaller increases over time rather than waiting until the end of a regular rate case when it comes to infrastructure improvements.
What the electric utilities seek, water and gas utilities already have.
Additionally, the Public Service Commission, charged with being the consumers’ watchdog, reviewed the proposal and determined consumers will pay the same regardless if they’re charged over a period of time or once a decision has been reached.
The current electric infrastructure across the state is 40 to 60 years old. The policies around investment have been around for 100 years. Both are in need of overhaul.
That’s why Ameren from St. Louis, KCP&L of Kansas City and Empire District Electric Co. based in Joplin are backing Senate Bill 207, introduced by Jefferson City Sen. Mike Kehoe, a Republican, that makes it possible for Missouri’s investor-owned electric companies to be reimbursed on a more timely basis for dollars already spent on power infrastructure. The charges would be reviewed by the PSC and, if deemed excessive, the bill mandates the money be returned.
Opposition comes, as expected, from consumer groups and a handful of large, individual customers who seek the status quo in their own best interests.
While the governor has been predictably quiet on the issue, it is believed he would sign the bill.
The PSC’s study speaks for itself.
So should the business the community. This is a matter of encouraging investment in Missouri, creating jobs, energy efficiency and supporting those who truly plug us in to the rest of the world.
