New study finds proposed EPA regulations could raise energy prices for Mississippi seniors
PEARL, MS – The 60 Plus Association and U.S. Rep. Gregg Harper (R-MS) joined together to unveil a new report, “Rising Energy Costs Harm Mississippi Senior Citizens,” which finds proposed EPA regulations would disproportionately impact the state’s senior population. Regulations like the Clean Power Plan could raise prices by 7.5-11.5 percent, a detrimental increase as more than half of the state’s seniors have an annual gross income of less than $30,000.
“60 Plus was honored to be joined by Rep. Gregg Harper today in Pearl to discuss the harmful impact EPA regulations would have on Mississippi’s seniors,” said Amy Noone Frederick, President of the 60 Plus Association. “The EPA’s Clean Power Rule would inflict great financial strain on Mississippi’s seniors and as the comment period deadline on the proposed regulations rapidly approaches, it is imperative that we stop the EPA from pushing these regulations forward. This rule would do little to benefit the environment; however, it would be destructive to the well being and financial resources of Mississippi’s seniors.”
“Mississippians do not want further EPA regulations impacting their lives. Higher electricity prices caused by the President’s so-called Clean Power rule directly affects fixed income families and seniors; many of which are already struggling to pay existing utility bills. The EPA’s rule is all pain for no gain,” said Rep. Harper.
Key Findings From Report:
- Proposed EPA regulations could raise prices in Mississippi between 7.5-11.5 percent.
- Mississippi has 259,000 households aged 65 or more (“65+”), representing nearly one‐quarter of the state’s 1.1 million households. More than one‐half of Mississippi’s 65+ households had gross annual incomes below $30,000 in 2012, with an average pre‐tax household income of $15,821, or $1,318 per month.
- For Mississippi’s seniors, electricity represents 74 percent of total residential utility bills.
