Andrew Hatch | Oppose HB610

The Office of the Consumer Advocate is an essential, independent representative of all residential ratepayers in New Hampshire. The role that it plays in providing a counterpoint to the priorities of the regulated utilities has proven time and time again to be not only essential but cost effective. The argument that this action will save ratepayers money is ludicrous. Our current CA, Don Kreis, has shown himself to be non-partisan and very effective in providing a voice for the general public. Without an independent ombudsman where else will individuals turn when faced with utility malfeasance? In fact, I cannot believe that it is actually LEGAL for the state of NH to allow utilities to operate as monopolies without an unquestionably independent Office of the Consumer Advocate.