Larry Rulison reports in the Albany Times Union that State Sen. James Tedisco wants the state Legislature — not state regulators — to approve future utility rate increases. National Grid currently has its first rate hike in a decade before the Public Service Commission, and that could mean an average of a $17 increase on monthly gas and electric bills. "It's appropriate that we keep the commission's oversight of these rate requests to give us recommendations, facts and justifications. However, it's imperative that we pass (the bill) so as accountable elected representatives, the state legislature will have the final say with ratification of any rate hike or reduction," Tedisco said of his proposed legislation. Read the full story in the Albany Times Union.