Sen. Perillo Applauds PURA’s Denial, Claiming a Win for Transparency and Affordability

HARTFORD, CT – State Senator Jason Perillo (R-Shelton) 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). This acquisition could have doubled household bills and reduced public oversight of water utility rates and consumer protections.

“I want to thank PURA for rejecting what was, from the start, a terrible deal,” Sen. Perillo said. “Had this gone through, it would have doubled water rates for families and businesses across Connecticut. Residents are already overburdened, and this ruling is incredibly welcome news.”

Sen. Perillo has criticized the lack of oversight and transparency within this deal and criticized the way the proposal advanced through the legislative process.

“This deal should never have been pushed through the legislature by majority Democrats last year, and it should never have been signed into law,” he said. “There was no public input through the public hearing process, no review by appropriate committees. Connecticut residents deserved better.”

With PURA’s denial now final, Sen. Perillo emphasized that the outcome represents a victory for accountability and affordability for residents statewide.

“At the very last moment, PURA stepped in and did the right thing,” he said. “Access to water is a necessity, and I’m relieved that countless families will not be burdened by exorbitant rates.”