The Iowa Utilities Board is taking public input this week on a proposed rate hike by one of the state s biggest gas and electric service providers. Advocates for lower-income Iowans and seniors are pushing back. Alliant Energy is proposing to increase natural gas and electric rates by nearly $300 million over the next two years, with a 13% hike in electricity rates and a 5% hike for gas, which would translate to paying $250 more per year for the average residential customer. .
The Biden administration has proposed a rule to help people save more in retirement and avoid "junk" fees from unscrupulous financial advisers. According to the White House, a financial adviser may receive a commission as high as 6.5% to recommend some insurance products, posing a conflict of interest. Melondia Franklin Corpus, an educator for 36 years, finally reached her retirement milestone last May. .
Social Security is a critical benefit for older Americans, and recipients in Tennessee and across the country will see an increase in their benefits next year. The 2024 increase is going to help more than 71 million Americans who are currently receiving either Social Security benefits or Supplemental Security Income payments. Robin Fountain, public affairs specialist for the Social Security Administration, said Social Security retirement benefits are going to increase on average by more than $50 a month, starting in January. .
Social Security is a critical benefit for older Americans, which is why advocates want Congress to start working now to ensure the program is maintained for future generations. Susan Nesbella, a volunteer with AARP Idaho, traveled to Washington, D.C., to celebrate 88 years of Social Security and also explore ways to ensure the program does not experience a shortfall. Nesbella pointed out reserves for the program will be depleted within the next 10 years. .