Schmaltz: ‘Everyday essentials shouldn’t cost so much’

State Rep. Kathy Schmaltz today voted for a plan to help lower electric bills and improve energy reliability for Michigan families who are struggling with rising monthly costs.

Schmaltz, R-Jackson, said residents across the area have been reaching out with growing concerns about how expensive it has become just to keep their lights on.

“Too many families are feeling overwhelmed every time the electric bill arrives,” Schmaltz said. “People are working hard, cutting back where they can, and still struggling to keep up with rising costs. Families should not have to choose between paying their utility bill, buying groceries, or filling a prescription.”

Schmaltz said the plan focuses on making energy more affordable while ensuring Michigan families can count on reliable power during storms, extreme temperatures, and other emergencies.

“When the power goes out, it affects every part of daily life,” Schmaltz said. “Parents lose groceries they cannot afford to replace. Seniors worry about staying safe in dangerous weather. Small businesses lose income while their doors stay closed. Michigan families deserve dependable energy they can actually afford.”

House Bills 5710-5711 would refocus state energy policy on affordability and reliability by rolling back costly state mandates and requiring the Michigan Public Service Commission to prioritize whether proposed energy plans will keep costs manageable for residents and ensure power is available when needed most.

The plan would also end the use of customer utility payments to fund outside advocacy groups and require greater transparency when utilities seek rate increases.

Schmaltz said the reforms put the needs of working families ahead of political agendas.

“Our energy policies should be based on what works for families, not what satisfies special interests,” Schmaltz said. “The goal should always be reliable power at a reasonable cost.”

Schmaltz said she is also working with her colleagues on a separate effort to provide widespread property tax relief. Between the two measures, Michigan families would save nearly $1,400 every year through lower property taxes and lower monthly electric bills.

House Bills 5710-5711 were approved by the House on Tuesday and now advance to the Michigan Senate for further consideration.