Power companies go to legislature for rate increase

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Intro:	Missouri's biggest power companies say that they need more cash for infrastructure upgrades -- and that cash could come out of the pockets of ordinary Missourians.
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Wrap: Three of Missouri's biggest power companies say they need increased funding to improve the state's electrical infrastructure.

Ameren Missouri President and Chief Executive Officer Warner Baxter said these increased rates will help build an electrical system that draws businesses to the state.

Actuality:	BAXTER1.WAV
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Description: Senate Bill 207 really provides three things: safety and reliability, it provides jobs and future economic development and it contains strong consumer protections.

Opponents to the proposal are concerned that the power companies are not giving enough details about how they will use the money.

Reporting from the state Capitol, I'm Ellie Coatar.

Intro:	Proposed utility rates could create thousands of jobs or cost Missourians money.
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Wrap: Three of Missouri's biggest power companies say they need increased funding to improve the state's electrical infrastructure.

Ameren Missouri President and Chief Executive Officer said consumer could see their monthly power bills rise by as much as 50 cents.

Actuality:	BAXTER2.WAV
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Description: What do we get in return? We get a state that is preparing itself for the future, we get reliable power and we get the opportunity to create jobs.

Consumer advocate groups are concerned how the proposed rate increases will effect Missourians utility bills.

Reporting from the state Capitol, I'm Ellie Coatar.

Intro:	Missouri power companies say they need more money for technological upgrades -- and it could come out of the pockets of ordinary Missourians
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OutCue:	SOC

Wrap: Missouri power companies say they need increased funding to improve the state's electrical infrastructure. They say they need about 50 cents more every month from every power consumer in the state.

Steve Spinner of Missouri Industrial Energy Consumers said the power companies are trying to go around state regulators and use the General Assembly to get their money.

Actuality:	SPINNER1.WAV
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Description: Streamlining the regulatory process is the goal of all regulated monopolies and it only benefits utilities, allowing them to get into the pockets of ratepayers faster with less oversight and less recourse.

Officials with the power companies say the rate increases would create jobs and make the state more economically competitive.

Reporting from the state Capitol, I'm Ellie Coatar.