Sen. Fazio Applauds PURA for Stopping Deal That Threatened Higher Water Bills

HARTFORD, CT – State Senator Ryan Fazio (R-Greenwich) today applauded the Connecticut Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) for voting to deny the proposed acquisition of Aquarion Water Company by the Regional Water Authority (RWA). PURA denied this proposal, citing reservations over financial requirements, consumer representation, and structural concerns.

“I am glad PURA denied what was, from the start, a terrible deal,” Sen. Fazio said. “The cost of living in Connecticut is already proving too much for residents, and this acquisition could have raised utility bills by hundreds of dollars. At a time when families are struggling to keep up, this decision provides much-needed relief.”

Sen. Fazio has been vocal in his opposition to the acquisition, consistently raising concerns about its impact on ratepayers and the lack of transparency surrounding the process. For years, he has stood firmly against efforts to advance the proposal without proper oversight.

“This deal stinks. It never received public discussion or proper debate and was rushed through the legislative process,” Sen. Fazio said. “I proposed legislation to undo permission for this deal, but the majority refused to support it. Instead, the Majority Democrats and Governor Lamont pushed this proposal forward without the public input it clearly required. Connecticut residents deserved better.”

With PURA’s denial now final, Sen. Fazio emphasized that the outcome represents an important victory for accountability, consumer protection, and long-term affordability for residents statewide.

“I am proud to have stood up for ratepayers and protected families from unnecessary financial hardship,” he said. “I’m relieved that countless households will not be burdened by this, and I remain committed to ensuring that all utility decisions are made with transparency and the best interests of residents in mind.”