Xcel Energy’s Big Rate Hike Under Fire

Xcel Energy’s Big Rate Hike Under Fire

Xcel Energy’s proposed $225 million rate hike could add $6.13 to the average monthly electric bill, pushing it over $110 — the biggest increase in Colorado’s history. While the utility, corporate clients, and unions support the deal citing grid modernization, wildfire risk, and rising costs, consumer advocates including AARP and Energy Outreach are rallying against it, arguing it unfairly burdens families already stretched thin. The settlement includes some compromises, like lowering ROI on new projects and penalizing the struggling Comanche 3 coal plant — with potential refunds — plus expanded aid for low-income households. The Public Utilities Commission is now weighing whether to approve or reject the plan. Support the show: Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN: advertise@thednn.ai This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting. Report issues to feedback@thednn.ai. View sources & latest updates: https://sources.thednn.ai/e600626ed3257c91

Hurd vs Hanks Republican Primary Clash

In Colorado’s Third District Republican primary, incumbent Rep. Jeff Hurd stays silent while challenger Ron Hanks goes on the offensive — blasting Obamacare, calling mail-in ballots “complete and utter trash,” backing military action against Iran, and dismissing climate change as a government hoax. With the June 30th vote looming, voters in this sprawling rural district face a stark choice between experience and fiery populism. Support the show: Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN: advertise@thednn.ai This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting. Report issues to feedback@thednn.ai. View sources & latest updates: https://sources.thednn.ai/365cf70db37bdc9e

Colorado SAR Crisis Sparks Resignation

Colorado’s search and rescue system is facing a seismic shift as state officials move to take over operations from the decades-old volunteer-run Colorado Search and Rescue Association, sparking outrage and resignations—including from legendary rescuer Paul “Woody” Woodward, who’s walked away over what he calls a poorly managed dismantling of a nationally respected program. With CSAR left out of the new interagency contract process and no clear successor in place as the current agreement expires, volunteers fear their vital, unpaid work is being sidelined—despite their proven track record, including complex aviation rescues with the National Guard. As lawmakers scramble to address funding and oversight, the future of this life-saving network hangs in the balance. Support the show: Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN: advertise@thednn.ai This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting. Report issues to feedback@thednn.ai. View sources & latest updates: https://sources.thednn.ai/a5139161776ca392

Wolf Reintroduction in Colorado Hits Roadblock

Colorado’s wolf reintroduction is hitting major roadblocks after a rancher killed the mother of four pups from the King Mountain pack—triggering a federal investigation and a costly legal defense. With this breeding pair already decimated by a prior trapping death, the loss threatens the state’s fragile wolf recovery. Ranchers say the state ignored their concerns, citing economic damage and unsuitable habitat, while federal agencies now scrutinize Colorado’s program and even threaten takeover. Tensions rise as the state defends its sourcing practices and permit policies, caught between conservation goals and rancher livelihoods. Support the show: Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN: advertise@thednn.ai This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting. Report issues to feedback@thednn.ai. View sources & latest updates: https://sources.thednn.ai/63f53fbf1ad2f757

Polis Vetoes Swipe Fee Bill

Governor Jared Polis just set a new personal record with 12 vetoes this year, including a high-profile bill that would have banned credit card swipe fees on sales tax — a move fiercely opposed by the banking industry, which spent millions lobbying against it. The bill, backed by small businesses who argued it was unfair to pay fees for collecting taxes, still passed both chambers but was ultimately vetoed. Polis called it legally complex and politically fraught, while also rejecting other bills — including one that would have expanded cancer coverage for firefighters and another that would allow lawsuits against federal agents. With more bills pending until June 12, the governor’s veto pen is still poised to strike, highlighting the ongoing tug-of-war between small business interests and powerful industry lobbies. Support the show: Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN: advertise@thednn.ai This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting. Report issues to feedback@thednn.ai. View sources & latest updates: https://sources.thednn.ai/4f49eb8f7a0565b7