Three Groups Oppose Energy Choice Ballot Initiative

RENO, NV - Three groups announced on Wednesday their opposition to a 2018 ballot initiative that would prohibit electricity providers from creating a monopoly in their service areas.

The Professional Firefighters of Nevada, Nevada Association of Public Safety Officers, and AARP Nevada all came out against Question 3, known as the Energy Choice Initiative, saying its passage would increase electricity rates, create a less reliable electricity system, and make senior citizens vulnerable to fraud.

"We are alarmed that Question 3 would provide fewer consumer protections and less access to affordable electricity for seniors. In deregulated states, such as Massachusetts, we've seen seniors targeted by predatory sales practices that lure them into contracts that actually cost them hundreds of dollars more per year," said Maria Dent, State Director of AARP Nevada.

The spirit of the ballot measure is to open Nevada's energy market, which is currently dominated by NV Energy. Nevada voters passed the measure in 2016, but a second passage is required in 2018 because the law would amend the state's constitution. Proponents of the measure, which include Nevada Governor Brian Sandoval, say customers should be able to choose their energy provider and that creating an open energy market will reduce costs for consumers.

The "Yes on 3" campaign is being led by Nevadans for Affordable Clean Energy Choices.

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