New report finds Kentucky energy bills have risen 128%
Lights Out in Kentucky, a new report co-authored by ACLC and partners at the Energy Equity Project, and Energy & Policy Institute, examines how rising rates and gaps in federal assistance are driving a surge in power disconnections across the state.
The report finds that more that electric bills in Kentucky have risen 128% since 2001, and that more than 1 in 5 families cannot afford their electric bills. While the federal LIHEAP (Low-Income Household Energy Assistance Program) remains critical, current funding levels fall far short of meeting needs. As a result, more Kentucky families are being pushed towards unaffordable bills and power shutoffs.
The report outlines policy changes the Kentucky State Legislature and the Kentucky Public Service Commission can make to strengthen protections, improve affordability, and reduce disconnections. Read ACLC’s press release here.
In Memory of Steve Sanders
ACLC founder and long-time Executive Director
We are mourning the loss of our founding director Steve Sanders, who passed away in January. Steve built the organization, served as ACLC’s Director for 17 years and continued to work part time, supporting staff and helping clients, after his retirement in 2018.
Steve had incredible compassion for each of his clients. Each story, each person, was meaningful to him. For those of us who had the good fortune of working with him, he showed us how to demand justice with bravery and kindness.
Everything Steve did was based in love and showed his incredible dedication to his family, his faith, and his sense of service, as well as his incredible optimism and curiosity about the world. Our hearts go out to the Sanders family, each of whom is a testament to what a wonderful person Steve was.
Read Steve’s obituary here.
New Black Lung Bulletin released
The newest edition of the Black Lung Bulletin is available now. Read about and share recent updates on the Silica Dust Rule, the Black Lung Resolutions Campaign, local events and more.
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