(INDIANAPOLIS) - Indiana lawmakers debated several proposals Monday aimed at easing the burden of rising utility costs but ultimately rejected all suggested changes.
Democratic legislators pushed measures they said would provide relief to struggling households, including eliminating reconnection fees for customers who fall behind on payments and removing sales tax from utility bills.
Supporters argued many residents are forced to choose between basic necessities such as housing, food and heating, and said state action could help families stay afloat.
Opponents warned that adopting significant changes at this stage could derail broader legislation addressing utility costs. Senate sponsor Eric Koch said approving amendments would send the bill back to committee past a key deadline, potentially killing it.
By the end of the debate, none of the proposed revisions passed. A handful of Republicans joined Democrats in supporting some measures, but not enough votes were secured for approval.
Lawmakers said discussions on how to address utility affordability in Indiana are expected to continue.