Alabama Lawmakers Push Energy Bill

0:00It's March 14. Here's your Birmingham News in two minutes. Alabama lawmakers just rushed Senate Bill 360 through the Senate in record time. The bill would overhaul the Public Service Commission by expanding it from three statewide elected members to seven, with one from each congressional, district. It also creates a new state secretary of energy appointed by the governor to set the Commission's agenda and handle its operations. The measure was introduced on Tuesday and passed the Senate by yesterday, now heading to the House for consideration. Initially, the governor would appoint the seven commissioners from lists of three candidates each, submitted by top legislative leaders. Come next January, the governor would also pick the energy secretary. Local leaders are pushing back hard. Chilton County Commissioner Bill Allen Williams says the changes give too much control to state officials and sideline voters. He supports a larger commission, but insists members should be elected by the public in their districts to stay accountable.

1:02On the plus side, the bill freezes electric rate hikes until 2029 and blocks utilities from passing certain costs to customers. Still, Williams warns it's moving too fast and questions who's driving it behind the scenes. With the House up next and the legislative session wrapping up next week, officials are urging residents to call their representatives and weigh in. Towards too late, appreciation to our sponsor for backing this episode. Headphones in a pillow, simple idea, surprisingly addictive, S-O-L-I-S-O-L-Pillow.com.