Tong argues against Aquarion sale, says it's not in the public's interest
During his testimony, Tong cited own PURA's concerns about the sale. Earlier this month, the authority recommended the sale even though it had "serious misgivings about the financial terms of the transfer."
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Attorney General William Tong argued Monday against the sale of Aquarion to the Regional Water Authority.
He said that if the sale goes through, it would double household water bills, cut consumer protections, and end public oversight over water rates.
During his testimony, Tong cited own PURA's concerns about the sale. Earlier this month, the authority recommended the sale even though it had "serious misgivings about the financial terms of the transfer."
"This is what you are saying. We, PURA, swore an oath to protect rate payers. We are really worried about this deal. We have very serious concerns about the cost and impact on all of you. And we have the full power and authority to stop it. But we're going to make you pay for it anyway," he said.
In November, PURA rejected the sale over rate concerns. Following that decision, a judge ordered the agency to take another look at the deal.
A final vote is expected to take place March 25.
The sale would impact more than 700,000 people and 62 municipalities.
