Connie Norris

Residents in Louisiana are challenging rising water and sewer bills after private utility company Magnolia Water expanded and increased rates significantly since 2019. Critics argue the company’s profit-driven approach leads to high customer costs, while supporters claim private investment is necessary to repair aging infrastructure. The Louisiana Public Service Commission faces calls for stronger oversight due to concerns over consumer protections.

Louisiana Public Service Commissioner Eric Skrmetta has taken a new position with the Trump administration as principal deputy under secretary at the U.S. Department of Energy, appointed by President Donald Trump, while remaining in his state role until his term ends in December. An election to fill his upcoming vacancy on the Public Service Commission will be held in November.

Cindy Case-Brown and Connie Norris are opposing Magnolia Water's rate hikes and acquisition of a St. Tammany Parish sewer system. Magnolia, a private equity-backed company, has acquired utility systems across Louisiana, leading to annual rate increases and the state's highest sewer rates. The Louisiana Public Service Commission (LPSC) typically approves these rate hikes, prioritizing utility financial viability over consumer costs.

Stephanie Hilferty won the Republican primary for the Louisiana Public Service Commission District 1 seat with 62% of the vote. Joseph Cao secured the Republican nomination for the District 1 Board of Elementary and Secondary Education race with 52% of the vote. Both races will proceed to the November general election.