Congress is set to deliberate on the CEA-authored FAIR Act (H.R. 4603), introduced by Rep. John McGuire of Virginia, which seeks to hold utility companies accountable for prioritizing political agendas over reliable service. The bill would prevent state regulators from approving electricity rates if utilities engage in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) or environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices when setting rates. Christian Employers Alliance (CEA) President Margaret Iuculano stressed that utility rates and public safety must not be influenced by political ideologies.

“Utilities should deliver power, not political agendas, and utility rates and safety should not be contingent on DEI or ESG factors,” Iuculano said. “The FAIR Act seeks to ensure a fair playing field for all energy consumers, regardless of their political standing.” Iuculano emphasized that accountability aligns with biblical business principles of stewardship and governance. She argued that focusing on DEI and ESG represents “wasteful, abusive, and poor stewardship of natural and financial resources.” Utilities, she added, should remain committed to their core mission — providing safe, reliable, and affordable energy. The FAIR Act stems from CEA’s Center for Biblical Business, which advocates for Christian-led companies through policy, legislative, and legal support. Citing the 2023 Smokehouse Creek Fire in Texas, Iuculano linked the disaster to Xcel Energy’s alleged prioritization of political agendas over public interests. Communities like Slayton, Minnesota are now considering alternatives, including forming their own municipal utility. “This use of monopoly power to promote political ideologies has come at the expense of reliability, affordability, and public safety,” Iuculano said. “Christian employers should lead the call for accountability in business and government decisions that endanger the public.” CEA is urging Congress, regulators, and the public to demand transparency and reform, ensuring utilities prioritize service over politics. “Accountability is needed,” Iuculano concluded. “The FAIR Act will ensure Christian employers and the communities they serve aren’t punished for staying true to their convictions.” Founded in 2016, CEA is a national non-profit representing Christian employers across the U.S., advocating for religious freedom and biblical values in the workplace.