( 25News Now ) - Ameren Illinois is defending its request for a nearly $129 million gas rate hike, saying its proposal maintains safety, integrity, and reliability of the natural gas distribution system.

The utility also said it is taking steps keep gas prices affordable.

Ameren Illinois issued a statement after administrative law judges recommended the rate hike should be reduced by about $44 million and consumer advocacy groups argued for an even smaller rate increase.

Advocacy groups including the Citizens Utility Board and the Illinois Public Interest Research Group call for the Illinois Commerce Commission to reduce the rate hike by at least $82 million. They believe Ameren is reaping excessive profits and engaging in wasteful spending.

Ameren Illinois has about 800,000 natural

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