Lawmakers Open Door To Ameren Rate Hike

State lawmakers have given back to Ameren Illinois what the Illinois Commerce Commission had taken away. Legislation approved by veto-proof majorities in both houses paves the way to reverse the rulings of regulators that had cut more than 50-million-dollars from the company's bottom line.

The company would be able to re-submit its rate case to the Illinois Commerce Commission with the likelihood that the cuts would be restored.  Governor Quinn may veto the bill, but his office hasn't announced what he will do.