Joco Today

U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, alongside Senators Jerry Moran and Josh Hawley, has introduced the Southwestern Power Administration Fund Establishment Act. This legislation aims to stabilize energy rates and enhance the electric grid in states under the Southwestern Power Administration (SWPA), which includes Kansas, Arkansas, Louisiana, Missouri, Oklahoma, and Texas.

The act proposes that SWPA be allowed to operate on a self-funding revolving fund. This change is expected to provide stable funding for SWPA to lower customer rates that are currently susceptible to market demands and severe weather fluctuations. Additionally, it would enable SWPA to plan long-term infrastructure improvements to prevent sudden increases in power rates.

"Kansans – especially our farmers and ranchers – need reliable and affordable power," stated Senator Marshall. "Consumers have suffered from high energy costs for too long, and this bill will help deliver stable and affordable power while improving our power grid infrastructure."

Senator Moran emphasized the importance of reliable electricity at stable rates during extreme weather conditions: "This legislation will provide funding stability that will allow energy providers to make needed infrastructure improvements."

Senator Hawley pointed out the recent tornadoes in Missouri as a reason for consistent energy supply: "This legislation will ensure that every Missourian has access to power they can rely on."

The bill is backed by several organizations including Kansas Electric Cooperatives, Inc., Southwestern Power Resources Association, National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA), and American Public Power Association.

Lee Tafanelli of Kansas Electric Cooperatives praised the act's potential impact on grid reliability: "We thank our home state Sens. Moran and Marshall for bringing forward legislation that will have a positive impact on our rural electric cooperatives."

Nicki Fuller from Southwestern Power Resources Association highlighted the importance of protecting federal hydropower resources: "This legislation recognizes the value of protecting that resource throughout the six-state region."

The NRECA supports the act's provision for a self-financed revolving loan fund: "The self-financed revolving loan fund authorized by this bill would allow [SWPA] to better manage infrastructure needs."

The American Public Power Association applauded the introduction of the act noting its benefits in streamlining financial processes: "It is a win-win for the federal government and communities served by not-for-profit electric utilities."