Kobach calls for lower utility rates

Topeka, KS(westernkansasnews.com) – Kansas Secretary of State Kris Kobach called on the Kansas Corporation Commission (KCC) and Kansas public utilities to reduce utility rates following the recent corporate federal tax cuts signed by President Trump.

“Kansas public utilities are about to experience a sizable financial windfall as a result of the corporate tax cut passed by Congress. As these utilities essentially operate as monopolies, the tax cuts should be passed along to Kansans in the form of lower utility rates,” said Kobach. “When utility companies receive a windfall they owe a duty to the public to return that revenue by lowering rates. I hope the Kansas Corporation Commission and utility companies act quickly to make this adjustment.”

The KCC is a three-member commission appointed by the Governor. One of their chief duties is regulating rates for public utilities including electricity and natural gas.

“Benjamin Franklin was to have said the only two certainties in life are death and taxes. In Kansas, there has been another certainty, regardless of which party controls the Governor’s office utility rates have increased. This impacts every Kansan, especially those struggling to make ends meet. As Governor, I will appoint KCC commissioners committed to pushing back on utility rates and protecting the financial well being of the people of Kansas,” added Kobach.