CCAG, in coalition with our state and national partners and Connecticut citizens, continues to take action on the planned issue agenda. Please join our email list and visit this page often for current actions and updates!
Take Action
Connecticut’s Key Industry must be held accountable for their role in climate disasters
CT companies like The Hartford, Travelers and WR Berkley all have significant investments and underwriting policies in climate destroying fossil fuel projects.
The carbon pollution from these projects lead to a warmer planet, exacerbating climate conditions that lead to deadly wildfires, hurricanes, floods and other climate-related devastation.
There are common sense solutions that can mitigate these deadly consequences but these continue to fall on the greedy, deaf ears of the insurance industry, fossil fuel projects and too many decision makers.
As “the insurance capitol of the world”, Connecticut’s key industry should be one of the guiding lights in the rebuilding of devastated communities - after all, that is what property and casualty insurance is for.
Unfortunately, victims in California have seen their homeowners insurance revoked.
What can we do here in Connecticut? An immediate action you can take today is to contact Connecticut Treasurer Erik Russell.
Our State Treasurer, Erik Russell, is responsible for public investment management. His office manages where $50 billion gets invested and can influence corporate behavior as an investor.
Send a message to Treasurer Russell and tell him Connecticut must make both fiscally and ethically - smart investments, and to call out Connecticut insurers for their gross negligence.
The carbon pollution from these projects lead to a warmer planet, exacerbating climate conditions that lead to deadly wildfires, hurricanes, floods and other climate-related devastation.
There are common sense solutions that can mitigate these deadly consequences but these continue to fall on the greedy, deaf ears of the insurance industry, fossil fuel projects and too many decision makers.
As “the insurance capitol of the world”, Connecticut’s key industry should be one of the guiding lights in the rebuilding of devastated communities - after all, that is what property and casualty insurance is for.
Unfortunately, victims in California have seen their homeowners insurance revoked.
What can we do here in Connecticut? An immediate action you can take today is to contact Connecticut Treasurer Erik Russell.
Our State Treasurer, Erik Russell, is responsible for public investment management. His office manages where $50 billion gets invested and can influence corporate behavior as an investor.
Send a message to Treasurer Russell and tell him Connecticut must make both fiscally and ethically - smart investments, and to call out Connecticut insurers for their gross negligence.
Methane Pipelines, Climate Change, & What Comes Next- Jan. 28th
You are invited to join us for an exciting and informative webinar featuring Bill McKibben, the founder of Third Act, on January 28th at 7pm.
On this webinar you'll learn about how across New England and the
United States, the extraction, transportation, and burning of fossil fuels
continues to increase even as it destroys our climate.
We'll discuss Project Maple, a proposed expansion of a methane pipeline in NY, CT, RI,
and MA which will continue to tie our region to dirty fossil fuels, raise
energy costs, pollute the air of our communities, and prevent our states
from meeting their climate goals.
In addition to Bill McKibben, author and founder of Third Act, we'll
hear from Dr. Sandra Steingraber, New York biologist and author, and local
organizers, Alycia Jenkins and Nick Katkevich.
RSVP today. We look forward to seeing you there!
Organized by CT Chapter Sierra Club
On this webinar you'll learn about how across New England and the
United States, the extraction, transportation, and burning of fossil fuels
continues to increase even as it destroys our climate.
We'll discuss Project Maple, a proposed expansion of a methane pipeline in NY, CT, RI,
and MA which will continue to tie our region to dirty fossil fuels, raise
energy costs, pollute the air of our communities, and prevent our states
from meeting their climate goals.
In addition to Bill McKibben, author and founder of Third Act, we'll
hear from Dr. Sandra Steingraber, New York biologist and author, and local
organizers, Alycia Jenkins and Nick Katkevich.
RSVP today. We look forward to seeing you there!
Organized by CT Chapter Sierra Club
Take Action Against Healthcare Greed
Recent events have shown just how many Americans have direct and painful experience with the health insurance strategy of “guarding against unnecessary care.”
This is actually how insurance companies, in pursuit of ever increasing profits, deploy claims denials and other tactics. Your health is not their concern.
Want to join the fight? Click here to share your own healthcare story with CCAG and to sign up to receive healthcare updates and take part in coming actions.
We will be offering new events that uncover and explore healthcare greed. We will also share ways you can take part in the decision making this legislative session with CCAG and allies as we work for a strong Public Option for healthcare and to address insurance company’s abuses of prior authorization.
CCAG has been fighting healthcare greed since our founding more than 50 years ago. We are not stopping now, and we will be working this legislative session for real wins for Connecticut families.
Too many of us are being denied care – by insurance companies getting between us and our doctors.
Enough is enough. Share your story and join the fight.
This is actually how insurance companies, in pursuit of ever increasing profits, deploy claims denials and other tactics. Your health is not their concern.
Want to join the fight? Click here to share your own healthcare story with CCAG and to sign up to receive healthcare updates and take part in coming actions.
We will be offering new events that uncover and explore healthcare greed. We will also share ways you can take part in the decision making this legislative session with CCAG and allies as we work for a strong Public Option for healthcare and to address insurance company’s abuses of prior authorization.
CCAG has been fighting healthcare greed since our founding more than 50 years ago. We are not stopping now, and we will be working this legislative session for real wins for Connecticut families.
Too many of us are being denied care – by insurance companies getting between us and our doctors.
Enough is enough. Share your story and join the fight.
What Hospital Consolidation Means for Our Health: Part 2 of the CCAG Healthcare Explainer Series
Thank you to everyone who joined us for this important meeting leading up to the 2025 legislative session which convenes on January 8th.
With your help we are building the groundswell support it will take to fight against how greed affects our access to healthcare, and what we can do to combat private companies putting profit over their patients.
Featured Speakers included:
Brennan Bilberry, Fairmark Partners LLP
John Brady, American Federation of Teachers
Ernies Davis, Leukemia & Lymphoma Society
Ayesha Clarke, Health Equity Solutions
Watch for Part 3 of the series coming up soon.
For questions, comments or to join the campaign, contact Liz Dupont-Diehl at: Ldd.ccag@gmail. com
With your help we are building the groundswell support it will take to fight against how greed affects our access to healthcare, and what we can do to combat private companies putting profit over their patients.
Featured Speakers included:
Brennan Bilberry, Fairmark Partners LLP
John Brady, American Federation of Teachers
Ernies Davis, Leukemia & Lymphoma Society
Ayesha Clarke, Health Equity Solutions
Watch for Part 3 of the series coming up soon.
For questions, comments or to join the campaign, contact Liz Dupont-Diehl at: Ldd.ccag@gmail. com
Thank you to the impressive number of folks who joined us for this important webiner re: Our State Treasurers Role in Our Climate Crisis
Climate Impacts of Connecticut Treasurer Investments and Shareholder Activity.
On December 4th, CCAG co-hosted an informational webinar to share information about the CT State Treasurer and the powerful role the Treasurer can play in confronting the climate crisis. As an investor and shareholder, the Treasurer can stop financing for fossil fuel expansion, accelerate investments in clean energy, and hold polluters accountable.
We presented information about our State Treasurer Erick Russell, the actions taken by the Treasurer so far, and the next steps for sustainable finance and responsible investment practices to mitigate climate change.
We expect future action on or around January 7th. Please be sure to sign up for CCAG emails to be kept updated on this issue.
For questions or to become more involved in CCAG’s climate work, contact: Helen Humphreys at: [email protected]
Co-hosted by: Sierra Club CT, C3M, CCAG, IREJN and Third Act CT
On December 4th, CCAG co-hosted an informational webinar to share information about the CT State Treasurer and the powerful role the Treasurer can play in confronting the climate crisis. As an investor and shareholder, the Treasurer can stop financing for fossil fuel expansion, accelerate investments in clean energy, and hold polluters accountable.
We presented information about our State Treasurer Erick Russell, the actions taken by the Treasurer so far, and the next steps for sustainable finance and responsible investment practices to mitigate climate change.
We expect future action on or around January 7th. Please be sure to sign up for CCAG emails to be kept updated on this issue.
For questions or to become more involved in CCAG’s climate work, contact: Helen Humphreys at: [email protected]
Co-hosted by: Sierra Club CT, C3M, CCAG, IREJN and Third Act CT
Thank you to everyone who attended and/or supported the CCAG Anniversary and Awards Event on Nov. 14th!
Thank you for being part of the Connecticut Citizen Action Group’s Anniversary & Awards Celebration last week! Whether you attended, donated, or helped spread the word, your support made the evening a tremendous success.
Watch this page for photos, the consumer handbook and more coming soon!
To our incredible honorees, Lynne Ide and Reggy Saint Fortcolin—thank you for sharing your evening with us. Your stories and dedication inspired hope and renewed purpose among all who gathered.
This event was not only a celebration but a powerful reminder of the strength we gain when we come together. The crowd was a beautiful reflection of the many skills, perspectives, and passions that enrich our collective actions. Each of you brought something unique, lifting spirits and building camaraderie at a time when many needed it most.
As we look ahead, CCAG is excited to work alongside each and every one of you to continue advocating for justice and progress. To strengthen our efforts:
- Become a member through a small monthly donation to help sustain our work year-round.
- Encourage others to join you by signing up for our email list to stay informed and take action in the critical months ahead.
As Lynne Ide aptly said in her award acceptance speech: “Don’t mourn, organize!” Together, we will carry the energy of this celebration into the fights that lie ahead, stronger and more united than ever.
A heartfelt thank-you to the Host Committee members who made Nov. 14th and the upcoming auction possible: Donna Becotte & Rep. Gregg Haddad, Bill Bloss, Beverly Brakeman, Marc Caplan, Steve Derby, Chris Donovan, Juan Figueroa, Jeff Freiser, Heidi Green, Scott Harris, Rep. Susan Johnson, Anne Stanback & Charlotte Kinlock, Dan Livingston, Sen. Rick Lopes, Tessa Marquis & Mike Brown, Judy Maslen, Amy McLean, Jenny Lee Michel & Rep. David Michel, Sen. Marilyn Moore, John Murphy, Rep. Mary Mushinsky, Lucy Nolan, Nick Nyhart, Cheri Quickmire, Miles Rapoport, Ethan Rome, Phil Sherwood, Peggy Shorey, LJ Spring, Pat Rehmer & Rep. Peter Tercyak, Aaron Turner, and Jill Zorn.
Your tireless efforts ensured this event was one to remember and created a space where hope and determination could flourish.
P.S. Our virtual Holiday Auction opened for preview on November 20tg, items will continue to be added until bidding goes live on November 30 at 8 AM. Bidding will close on December 10 at 8 PM. Pre-register today to get a leg up on the competition and secure your spot!
Stop the Expansion of Fracked Gas Pipelines in Connecticut.
Environmental groups across the state are urging Governor Ned Lamont and DEEP Chairman Katie Dykes to keep CT’s climate promise, stand up for a clean energy future, and reject the permit for the Brookfield compressor station expansion & Project Maple (a fracked gas pipeline expansion).
It is urgent that we stop the fracked gas compressor station expansion proposed for Brookfield, CT. The corporations that own the facility, TC Energy & Berkshire Hathaway, want to more than double the size of the facility. One of the most concerning things about this proposal is that the compressor station is located just 1900 feet away from the town's middle school. The final permit for the expansion in Brookfield is being reviewed right now by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP).
There are also many concerns around Enbridge's Project Maple, a proposed fracked gas pipeline extension from New Jersey to Rhode Island, running across Connecticut. Enbridge says new capacity is needed to keep up with demand. One major concern is leaking gas, which can lead to a range of health issues, from respiratory diseases to cancer.
This pipeline threatens the health of our environment, communities, and the financial wellbeing of all Connecticut residents. Fracked gas infrastructure increases energy costs, strains household budgets, and further exacerbates our slow progress toward meeting Connecticut’s climate and carbon goals. Visit ccag.net to take action. Clean energy must be a priority!
You can take action on both projects here.
We need to put gas in the past, and invest in clean energy instead of more gas pipelines. Our energy bills, our air, and our climate are all at risk when we increase our dependence on fossil fuels. Connecticut residents deserve affordable energy bills and a healthier climate.
CT Utilities Wanted to Invest in More Polluting Gas at Your Expense - Your Voice Made a Difference. RATE HIKES DENIED!
Thank you all, watch for updates here
Natural Gas Rate Hikes. CT Natural Gas (CNG), Southern CT Gas (SCG) and Yankee Gas have requested an increase in rates, and want to prolong our dependence on fossil fuels by making investments in gas infrastructure; they want to force us to pay for it with our wallets, our health, and our climate.
On October 4th a draft decision was made to not only deny the gas rate hikes for CNG and SCG but also reduce the rates. This decision is a win for ratepayers, but a disappointment for our climate.
The companies' proposed clean energy projects were found ineligible for recovery because they would not meaningfully reduce emissions. Gas companies must align long term planning for the gas distribution system with the state's decarbonization goals and avoid investment in the system beyond necessary safety repairs. The utilities had proposed to recover money for wholesale replacement of leak prone pipes. A better alternative is to evaluate all projects for targeted electrification, non-pipe alternatives, or networked geothermal/district heat pump systems.
Contact [email protected] if you have any questions or need help sending comments.
News Articles:
Natural Gas Rate Hikes. CT Natural Gas (CNG), Southern CT Gas (SCG) and Yankee Gas have requested an increase in rates, and want to prolong our dependence on fossil fuels by making investments in gas infrastructure; they want to force us to pay for it with our wallets, our health, and our climate.
On October 4th a draft decision was made to not only deny the gas rate hikes for CNG and SCG but also reduce the rates. This decision is a win for ratepayers, but a disappointment for our climate.
The companies' proposed clean energy projects were found ineligible for recovery because they would not meaningfully reduce emissions. Gas companies must align long term planning for the gas distribution system with the state's decarbonization goals and avoid investment in the system beyond necessary safety repairs. The utilities had proposed to recover money for wholesale replacement of leak prone pipes. A better alternative is to evaluate all projects for targeted electrification, non-pipe alternatives, or networked geothermal/district heat pump systems.
Contact [email protected] if you have any questions or need help sending comments.
News Articles:
- Regulators Reject Rate Hike Requests From Natural Gas Providers -November 19th, 2924 - By Jamil Ragland - CT News Junkie
- Connecticut Utilities Want to Invest in More Polluting Gas – at Your Expense FEBRUARY 22, 2024 | SHANNON LAUN Vice President of Conservation Law Foundation, CT
Electric Rate Shock - Two Critical Actions to Take NOW!
Republican leaders and utility companies are spreading lies about the cause of skyrocketing energy bills - and throwing clean energy under the bus.
Here are the facts: In 2017, mostly Republican lawmakers caved to pressure from Dominion and voted to give it a sweetheart deal on power generated by the Millstone nuclear plant.
More recently, two PURA commissioners voted to recoup associated costs in just 10 months instead of 3 years.
Your voice is needed! Please take both of the following actions now!
Here are the facts: In 2017, mostly Republican lawmakers caved to pressure from Dominion and voted to give it a sweetheart deal on power generated by the Millstone nuclear plant.
More recently, two PURA commissioners voted to recoup associated costs in just 10 months instead of 3 years.
Your voice is needed! Please take both of the following actions now!
- Tell PURA Commissioners Betkoski and Caron to reverse their decision to recoup costs over a 10 month period and adopt Chairperson Marissa Gillett's recommendation that costs be spread out over three years. Let Commissioners Betkoski and Caron know we are sick and tired of energy corporations driving up our costs. Click here to send your message.
- Tell Your Legislators to Support Efficiency to Lower Energy Costs and start addressing the real issues driving up electric bills. Send your message to your legislators and Republican leadership today!
The CID decision is in, thank you to everyone who took action!
Health insurance companies asked the Connecticut Insurance Department (CID) for its blessing to raise your rates - again.
The CID heard you and on September 6, they issued their final rulings on 8 health insurance rate filings for the 2025 individual and small group markets. These were for plans that currently cover about 200,000 people.
The average rate increase requested in the individual market was reduced by 29% from the requested 8.3%, resulting in an average increase of 5.9%. The average rate increase requested in the small group market was reduced 35% from a requested average of 11.9%, resulting in an average increase of 7.8%.
There is still more work to do. CCAG released a press statement: "We appreciate the Insurance Department rolling back the proposed health insurance rate hikes and placing a cap on profits on health insurance. However, prices are still too high. The review did not adequately analyze how vertical integration impacts rates and did not place limits on this. The legislature needs to give the Department the tools to do this analysis and limit insurers' schemes to profit at every level."
We are pleased that the hikes have been mitigated to a degree.
Clearly, our government needs to act in a much stronger manner to rein in these corporate profiteers.
Stay tuned for updates and future action!
The CID heard you and on September 6, they issued their final rulings on 8 health insurance rate filings for the 2025 individual and small group markets. These were for plans that currently cover about 200,000 people.
The average rate increase requested in the individual market was reduced by 29% from the requested 8.3%, resulting in an average increase of 5.9%. The average rate increase requested in the small group market was reduced 35% from a requested average of 11.9%, resulting in an average increase of 7.8%.
There is still more work to do. CCAG released a press statement: "We appreciate the Insurance Department rolling back the proposed health insurance rate hikes and placing a cap on profits on health insurance. However, prices are still too high. The review did not adequately analyze how vertical integration impacts rates and did not place limits on this. The legislature needs to give the Department the tools to do this analysis and limit insurers' schemes to profit at every level."
We are pleased that the hikes have been mitigated to a degree.
Clearly, our government needs to act in a much stronger manner to rein in these corporate profiteers.
- Read the CID Announcement
- Read the Rate Filings Fact Sheet
- View CCAG's press release & report revealing 2023 spending by just four health insurance companies on profits, CEO pay and stock buybacks. They are making billions by rejecting your claims and raising your rates.
Stay tuned for updates and future action!
Cycle4CT 24 Thank you to everyone who participated!
The Cycle4CT Challenge raises funds to strengthen our organizing capacity in Connecticut to make progress towards a Zero Carbon Future. Watch this site for updates!
To Our Courageous Challengers
Your commitment helped raise crucial funds for CCAG's climate and environmental justice advocacy. Special thanks to: Tony Adamcyzk with Team Our Only Planet, Duste Dunn, Liz Dupont-Diehl with Team Dupont-Diehl Farm Riders, Daniel Livingston, Donald Rogers, and L.J. Spring with Team Power Peddling for Our Planet.
To Our Generous Donors
Your contributions have fueled our mission and empowered us to continue our vital work. We couldn't do this without you.
Heartfelt thanks to: Anthony Adamczyk, Bob Reutenauer, Chris Kelly, Daniel Braccio, Daniel Livingston, David Pickus, Debbie Caves, Deborah Green, Donald Rogers, Duste Dunn, Ed Davies, Emily Wolfe, Ethan Price-Livingston, Hilary Carpenter, Hildred's Farm, Jack Potter, Jazz Singh, Joanna James, Jody Barr, Kaia Yoga, Katherine Hermees, Laura Jordan, L.J. Spring, Louise Simmons, Marc Caplan, Marina Boccarossa, Melodie Erdmann, Michael Winkler, Nicole Rothgeb, Patricia Rogers, Patricia Rothgeb, Paul Filson,Paul Vakos, Rob Thomas, Robert Nixon, Samuel King Stuart and Carol Sisco, Thomas Pendagast, Tiana Holder, Tom and Meg Meiklejohn, Tracy Deegan, Tom Swan, Tricia G, and Win Heimer.
To Our Business Sponsors: Your partnership and support have been instrumental in making Cycle4CT a success. We are deeply grateful to you all.
Livingston, Adler, Pulda, Meiklejohn & Kelly, PC is a law firm based in Hartford, CT. The firm's experienced attorneys are dedicated to providing their clients with the best possible representation. Livingston, LAPMK is committed to fighting for the rights of their clients in employment, labor, and civil rights laws to ensure a more just workplace.
Kaia Yoga offers a comprehensive approach to yoga, meditation, teacher trainings, and wellness education. With 10 locations in CT and NY, as well as virtual classes, they provide accessibility and flexibility for individuals seeking a holistic and mindful practice. Their commitment to creating a sense of community and offering diverse class options sets them apart, making Kaia Yoga a valuable resource for those looking to enhance their physical and mental well-being.
CEUI is a labor union that has been instrumental in advocating for the rights and interests of workers in CT. Their team of experienced union representatives works tirelessly to ensure that workers are treated fairly and with respect.
Between the Lines on WPKN hosted by CCAG Alumni Scott Harris offers a platform for in-depth discussions on a wide range of social, political, and environmental issues. With a commitment to independent journalism and grassroots activism, the show provides a valuable space for marginalized voices and alternative perspectives to be heard. Through thought-provoking interviews and insightful analysis, Between the Lines fosters a more informed and engaged citizenry.
ComForCare provides in-home care for seniors and individuals with disabilities. They offer a variety of services, including personal care, light housekeeping, meal preparation, and transportation. ComForCare has been recognized for it's high-quality care with numerous awards and accolades for its services. They are a trusted and reliable choice for anyone in need of home care services.
Sacrament is a local epicenter for creatives to exchange resources and heighten intuitive gifts. By cultivating our relationship with ourselves, we can create connections extending beyond our own inner worlds. Available resources at Sacrament include reiki healing & aura reading, a Sunlighten infrared sauna, custom Bach flower essences, custom essential oil blends and a shop offering vintage treasures and various tools for self-care rituals. Located at 95 Main St., Norwalk, CT. Walk-ins welcome. Visit sacrament.us to shop online or book an appointment.
Cycle4CT is more than just a fundraiser; it's a movement. Your involvement has not only helped us financially but has also raised awareness about the urgent need for climate action. Together, we are making a significant impact.
Contact Natasha Kuranko for questions regarding our climate work. If you're inspired by this year’s event and would like to participate as a challenger next year, we would love to hear from you!
Once again, thank you for your unwavering support and for being a part of the CCAG community. Together, we’re pedaling towards a brighter, greener future. View the August Climate newsletter here. To see what your contribution supports.
TOGETHER WE CAN SAVE OUR PLANET ONE REVOLUTION AT A TIME!
Thank you to everyone who joined us to hold Travelers Insurance Company accountable on May 15th!
On May 15th, CCAG and Third Act CT activists attended the Travelers Insurance Company stockholder meeting in Hartford.
Travelers is one of the top fossil fuel insurers in the world. From inside the meeting, we presented our list of demands including that they stop insuring fossil fuel projects.
Over the summer, we will continue to pressure these companies. If fossil fuel projects aren't insured or underwritten, they can't exist.
CCAG and Insure Our Future continue to work to hold insurance companies accountable for climate destruction. The Connecticut legislature failed to pass any regulatory policies for insurance companies in our state that invest in and underwrite fossil fuels this year.
Once again, we find we must take this issue into our own hands and directly to the insurance companies. Stay tuned for more actions coming soon. Be sure to join our email list for updates on this issue.
For questions or comments contact Helen Humphreys at: [email protected]
PRESS & MEDIA:
Climate activists in Hartford urge insurance giant Travelers to cut ties with fossil fuel companies
By Matt Dwyer, CT Public Radio, 5/15/24
What happened inside the meeting? Excerpt from Insure Our Future Twitter page.
Connecticut Climate Activists to Rally at Travelers Shareholder Meeting
Travelers Shareholder Press Advisory, 5/14/24
Student Climate Campaign Targets CT-Based Insurance Companies for Fossil Fuel Investments. Interview with Joanna Mallary, a clinical psychology doctoral candidate at the University of Hartford, conducted by Scott Harris-
Counter Point, 5/13/24
Travelers is one of the top fossil fuel insurers in the world. From inside the meeting, we presented our list of demands including that they stop insuring fossil fuel projects.
Over the summer, we will continue to pressure these companies. If fossil fuel projects aren't insured or underwritten, they can't exist.
CCAG and Insure Our Future continue to work to hold insurance companies accountable for climate destruction. The Connecticut legislature failed to pass any regulatory policies for insurance companies in our state that invest in and underwrite fossil fuels this year.
Once again, we find we must take this issue into our own hands and directly to the insurance companies. Stay tuned for more actions coming soon. Be sure to join our email list for updates on this issue.
For questions or comments contact Helen Humphreys at: [email protected]
PRESS & MEDIA:
Climate activists in Hartford urge insurance giant Travelers to cut ties with fossil fuel companies
By Matt Dwyer, CT Public Radio, 5/15/24
What happened inside the meeting? Excerpt from Insure Our Future Twitter page.
Connecticut Climate Activists to Rally at Travelers Shareholder Meeting
Travelers Shareholder Press Advisory, 5/14/24
Student Climate Campaign Targets CT-Based Insurance Companies for Fossil Fuel Investments. Interview with Joanna Mallary, a clinical psychology doctoral candidate at the University of Hartford, conducted by Scott Harris-
Counter Point, 5/13/24
Thank you to everyone who sent comments to PURA re: the most recent electric rate hike requests
Eversource (Cl & P) and United Illuminating are back for more of your money with yet another rate hike request.
Utility rates are an essential pocketbook issue for Connecticut residents. Many of us are still struggling pay off the last increase and other household expenses like food and medicine. The economic effects of inflation and other pressures continue to impact Connecticut residents’ finances.
UPDATE: Electric bills for Eversource customers are slated to go up this summer, according to bill adjustments released by the utility this week.
In April, the state’s three-member Public Utilities Regulatory Authority voted 2-1 in favor of the 10-month rate increase in spite of the tremendous public outcry.
CCAG commends PURA Chairman Marissa Gillett who voted against the increase. She said that the increase should have been spread out over a longer time period to lessen the impact on customers. “Instead, customers will bear the brunt of this extraordinary volatility and anomalous conditions over the course of an unreasonably short period of time given the magnitude of costs at stake,”
The rate adjustments come as residents enter the summer months, when people typically consume more power, turning on air conditioners to cool their homes.
One small adjustment is that the hike will begin to show up in customers bills in July rather than May. United Illuminating customers will see an average of $359.36 and Eversource customers will see an increase of approximately $304.56 a year.
Utility rates are an essential pocketbook issue for Connecticut residents. Many of us are still struggling pay off the last increase and other household expenses like food and medicine. The economic effects of inflation and other pressures continue to impact Connecticut residents’ finances.
UPDATE: Electric bills for Eversource customers are slated to go up this summer, according to bill adjustments released by the utility this week.
In April, the state’s three-member Public Utilities Regulatory Authority voted 2-1 in favor of the 10-month rate increase in spite of the tremendous public outcry.
CCAG commends PURA Chairman Marissa Gillett who voted against the increase. She said that the increase should have been spread out over a longer time period to lessen the impact on customers. “Instead, customers will bear the brunt of this extraordinary volatility and anomalous conditions over the course of an unreasonably short period of time given the magnitude of costs at stake,”
The rate adjustments come as residents enter the summer months, when people typically consume more power, turning on air conditioners to cool their homes.
One small adjustment is that the hike will begin to show up in customers bills in July rather than May. United Illuminating customers will see an average of $359.36 and Eversource customers will see an increase of approximately $304.56 a year.
Thank Environment Committee Members for holding Insurers accountable!
For the last 4 years, CCAG has been working hard to hold insurance companies accountable for propping up fossil fuel projects and fueling the climate crisis.
the Connecticut General Assembly’s Environment Committee just voted a groundbreaking policy out of committee.
The committee voted to approve the Governor's Climate Resiliency bill (SB11) with an amendment that advances a climate resiliency fund to support communities in Connecticut harmed by extreme weather disasters fueled by climate chaos.
This piece of legislation would take a crucial step in highlighting insurers' role in the climate crisis, and hold them accountable for the devastation their underwriting policies have caused.
You can send a thank you note to the Environment Committee Members who voted YES on S.B.11.
Thanks to them, the bill is headed to the Senate floor, and we have a real chance at holding insurers accountable. Here is the full vote tally list:
We have until May 8th to get this passed through both chambers, so stay tuned for more actions!
Climate and Environment Advocacy Day! 3/15/24
Come to the State Capitol in Hartford to advocate for strong and meaningful legislation to protect our environment and keep Connecticut's climate promise!
At this event you will hear from speakers about bills before the legislature on topics including climate, clean energy, pollution reduction, toxics, and waste reduction. We'll have materials available for you to share with your legislators following the program. Once you have signed up, please reach out to your own legislators, invite them to the program, and ask to meet with them after the program ends at 10:30 am.
Cohosted by Sierra Club CT, CTLCV, Clean Water Action, CT Environmental Rights Amendment Alliance, CT NOFA, CCAG, Coalition for Pesticide Reform, Third Act CT, CT Roundtable on Climate and Jobs, CLF, Save the Sound, Connecticut Coalition for Environmental and Economic Justice
RSVP Here.
At this event you will hear from speakers about bills before the legislature on topics including climate, clean energy, pollution reduction, toxics, and waste reduction. We'll have materials available for you to share with your legislators following the program. Once you have signed up, please reach out to your own legislators, invite them to the program, and ask to meet with them after the program ends at 10:30 am.
Cohosted by Sierra Club CT, CTLCV, Clean Water Action, CT Environmental Rights Amendment Alliance, CT NOFA, CCAG, Coalition for Pesticide Reform, Third Act CT, CT Roundtable on Climate and Jobs, CLF, Save the Sound, Connecticut Coalition for Environmental and Economic Justice
RSVP Here.
Insure Our Future campaigns Global Week of Action- CT Action 2/26/24
Next week is the Insure Our Future campaigns Global Week of Action. There will be actions all around the world calling out insurance companies' role in the climate crisis, and in the US we are setting our sights on the insurers of the toxic LNG terminals.
Join us Monday (2/26) from 11:30am-1pm outside The Hartford insurance company in downtown Hartford to stand with Louisiana frontline activists and hold underwriters accountable!
On Monday (2/26) two activists from the Louisiana Gulf will be traveling all the way to Hartford to confront The Hartford, as they are one of the underwriters listed on US LNG export terminals. We will hear from activists and Lake Charles community members, Roishetta Sibley Ozane and James Hiatt, who have been fighting tirelessly to protect their community.
Insurance is Connecticut's keystone industry, and The Hartford touts themselves as one of the "world's most ethical companies" .
As Connecticut citizens, we must hold them accountable and stand in solidarity with the communities that are suffering from their greed.
Please feel free to share this action to your lists/contacts and let me know if you have any questions or would like to get more involved!
See you Monday! Helen Humphreys, CCAG Communications Coordinator
Join us Monday (2/26) from 11:30am-1pm outside The Hartford insurance company in downtown Hartford to stand with Louisiana frontline activists and hold underwriters accountable!
On Monday (2/26) two activists from the Louisiana Gulf will be traveling all the way to Hartford to confront The Hartford, as they are one of the underwriters listed on US LNG export terminals. We will hear from activists and Lake Charles community members, Roishetta Sibley Ozane and James Hiatt, who have been fighting tirelessly to protect their community.
Insurance is Connecticut's keystone industry, and The Hartford touts themselves as one of the "world's most ethical companies" .
As Connecticut citizens, we must hold them accountable and stand in solidarity with the communities that are suffering from their greed.
Please feel free to share this action to your lists/contacts and let me know if you have any questions or would like to get more involved!
See you Monday! Helen Humphreys, CCAG Communications Coordinator
Public Hearing: Raise the Age for HUSKY4Immigrants! Wednesday February 21st, 2pm
Over the last 3 years, as part of the HUSKY for Immigrants Coalition, CCAG helped to expand HUSKY Healthcare to kids under 15 and pregnant people We know health needs don’t stop at 15, so we’re ready to make noise again
The Appropriations Committee has called a Public Hearing on Wednesday February 21, at 2pm where individuals can speak out on what services our state should fund! We’re asking everyone to submit testimony asking the Appropriations Committee to fund HUSKY for immigrants up to age 18 in this year's budget
YOUR VOICE IS NEEDED. The deadline to submit testimony is February 21st by 10am!
Here is a "Testimony Writing Form", which allows you to easily and quickly draft your testimony!
The Appropriations Committee has called a Public Hearing on Wednesday February 21, at 2pm where individuals can speak out on what services our state should fund! We’re asking everyone to submit testimony asking the Appropriations Committee to fund HUSKY for immigrants up to age 18 in this year's budget
YOUR VOICE IS NEEDED. The deadline to submit testimony is February 21st by 10am!
Here is a "Testimony Writing Form", which allows you to easily and quickly draft your testimony!
Clean cars - clean air
State Republicans and a Koch brothers front group are spreading extensive lies about what proposed new clean cars regs would do.
Click here to write to lawmakers and let them know you stand with Governor Lamont in standing up to the Koch brothers and making sure Connecticut remains a leader in adopting clean energy!
A vote in the regulatory committee was delayed - but Governor Lamont and Democrat lawmakers have vowed to continue to work on passing these good regulations and on building a charging infrastructure that is fair and equitable and meets our human and climate needs.
Not only if it is the right thing to do - it means Connecticut won’t lose out on millions of federal dollars allocated for clean cars.
As the Governor and others pointed out, people in our cities breathe air that is far more polluted by fossil fuel emissions from gas-powered cars than their suburban neighbors. This is an equity issue as well as a climate emergency.
Show Governor Lamont and others that we have their backs as they fight for the right thing!
Click here today. Thanks for all you do.
Click here to write to lawmakers and let them know you stand with Governor Lamont in standing up to the Koch brothers and making sure Connecticut remains a leader in adopting clean energy!
A vote in the regulatory committee was delayed - but Governor Lamont and Democrat lawmakers have vowed to continue to work on passing these good regulations and on building a charging infrastructure that is fair and equitable and meets our human and climate needs.
Not only if it is the right thing to do - it means Connecticut won’t lose out on millions of federal dollars allocated for clean cars.
As the Governor and others pointed out, people in our cities breathe air that is far more polluted by fossil fuel emissions from gas-powered cars than their suburban neighbors. This is an equity issue as well as a climate emergency.
Show Governor Lamont and others that we have their backs as they fight for the right thing!
Click here today. Thanks for all you do.
2023
Thank You to Everyone Who Took Action to Stop Health Insurance Greed On October 11th, 2023
Health insurance companies are making trillions by denying people care.
Wall Street is happy - but people are suffering, as for-profit insurance companies reject care recommended by doctors to ensure their profits, executive pay and stock buybacks.
Join us to march on two main offenders in Hartford - Aetna and UnitedHealth. Their CEO salaries and stock buybacks will curl your hair. And they are taking public money for Medicare Advantage meant to provide healthcare for seniors, people with disabilities, and poor people -- and instead using it to pad executive salaries and profits by denying medically necessary care.
Thank you to everyone who gathered with us and marched outside of Mother Aetna on Farmington Ave., and continued to UnitedHealth on Asylum St.
Wall Street is happy - but people are suffering, as for-profit insurance companies reject care recommended by doctors to ensure their profits, executive pay and stock buybacks.
Join us to march on two main offenders in Hartford - Aetna and UnitedHealth. Their CEO salaries and stock buybacks will curl your hair. And they are taking public money for Medicare Advantage meant to provide healthcare for seniors, people with disabilities, and poor people -- and instead using it to pad executive salaries and profits by denying medically necessary care.
Thank you to everyone who gathered with us and marched outside of Mother Aetna on Farmington Ave., and continued to UnitedHealth on Asylum St.
#MarchtoEndFossilFuels September 17th 2023 in NYC
Thank you to everyone who joined us for this critical action on climate! You can help mitigate damaging climate changes that are affecting our lives and earth as we know it, both locally and globally.
On September 17th, CT citizens joined over 75,000 people for the March to End Fossil Fuels in New York City.
The march took place ahead of the first of its kind, UN Climate Ambition Summit. We called on President Biden to stop fossil fuel expansion, leveraging as much national and international pressure as possible to call on him to change course.
Decisive action is needed now to prevent vast regions of earth from becoming practically or entirely uninhabitable. We need an emergency, unprecedented transition from fossil fuels to renewable power.
On September 17th, CT citizens joined over 75,000 people for the March to End Fossil Fuels in New York City.
The march took place ahead of the first of its kind, UN Climate Ambition Summit. We called on President Biden to stop fossil fuel expansion, leveraging as much national and international pressure as possible to call on him to change course.
Decisive action is needed now to prevent vast regions of earth from becoming practically or entirely uninhabitable. We need an emergency, unprecedented transition from fossil fuels to renewable power.
Thank you to all who Supported PURA's UI Rate Denial!
UPDATE! August 25th. PURA makes final decision on UI's rate hike request. Thank you to everyone who participated!
In a press release, the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority said PURA "rejects The United Illuminating Company's proposed distribution rate increase of $131 million over three years. Instead, the Final Decision authorizes an increase of $22.957 million."
PURA also rejected UI's rejected UI's request for an extension to make their case.
There is no doubt that everyone who took action helped this to happen. Thank you!
Background:
- UI requested an extra $36 million in revenue. PURA's decision was to agree to an increase of roughly $3 million. This is an increase in revenue - not a reduction - just not as large an increase as they requested.
- In the last rate case UI promised to clean up English Station, which they never did. Our state must hold them accountable. UI should not continue to enjoy increasing profits from CT residents especially in environmental justice communities when they refuse to meet their previous legal and financial obligations.
CCAG has brought you news that just four greedy health insurance companies reported taking $400 BILLION away from your care - to pay for CEO compensation, gross profits, and stock buybacks.
Now they want to raise your rates!
Requested increases are as high as 23% – from companies that are spending billions of your premium dollars on executive pay, stock buybacks, and profits.
The insurance department is holding an informational session Monday, August 21 at 9 am. Join us in front of the LOB to demand it reject the requested increases and instead take into account executive pay, vertical integration, stock buybacks and profits. Click here to sign up for Monday's protest, and here to tell Commissioner Andrew Mais to reject the increases!
CCAG has revealed that 2022 spending by just four health insurance companies on profits, CEO pay and stock buybacks was just short of $400 billion. Click here for our posts and for some of the feedback we have received!
Click here for more background.
Clearly, government needs to act in a much stronger manner to rein in these corporate profiteers! Make sure to submit testimony and speak out at the public hearing!
