Washington AG challenges utility rate hike, says monopoly wants $115 million too much

Washington AG challenges utility rate hike, says monopoly wants $115 million too much

State regulators are weighing whether Avista can raise electricity and gas rates in the Spokane area. Washington Attorney General Nick Brown said the utility's request goes well beyond what customers should have to cover. At the center of the dispute is a question with major consequences for households: How much profit should a monopoly utility be allowed to make when customers have nowhere else to turn? Here's what to know Brown's office said A…