Recently obtained text messages and documents suggest that FirstEnergy, an Ohio-based utility company, may have collaborated with Governor Mike DeWine to push for the passage of House Bill 6. This controversial legislation, which was signed into law in 2019, provided a $1 billion bailout for two nuclear power plants in the state.
The texts, which were obtained by News 5 Cleveland WEWS, reportedly show conversations between FirstEnergy officials and the governor’s office discussing strategy to pass the bill, as well as the company’s influence over key lawmakers. According to the messages, FirstEnergy executives were in regular contact with DeWine’s former chief of staff, Laurel Dawson, and even met with the governor himself to discuss the legislation.
The revelations come at a time when Ohio is already facing scrutiny over the passage of House Bill 6, which has been labeled as a “nuclear bailout bill” by critics. In July, former House Speaker Larry Householder and four associates were arrested on federal charges for their alleged involvement in a $60 million bribery scheme to pass the legislation.
Governor DeWine has denied any knowledge of the bribery scheme and has called for the repeal of House Bill 6. However, these new texts raise questions about the extent of his administration’s involvement in pushing for the bill’s passage. The governor’s office has stated that they are cooperating with federal authorities in their investigation into the matter.
As these latest developments unfold, it remains to be seen how they will impact the ongoing investigation and potential repeal of House Bill 6. Critics are calling for transparency and accountability from both FirstEnergy and Governor DeWine as Ohio residents demand answers about the controversial legislation and its implications for the state’s energy future.
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