Smart meters discussed in Lansing

A state House committee has heard from people who say they worry about the health effects of radiation from smart meters that utilities use to measure consumption.  Rochester Hills Republican Rep. Tom McMillin chairs the House Oversight Committee and led Tuesday’s hearing.  Michigan utilities are installing smart meters as a way to make it easier to measure customers’ use.  The Michigan Public Service Commission says that by sending readings to a person’s utility company automatically, the smart meters eliminate the need for employees to read meters and improve billing accuracy.  Lillian Cusimano of Clarkston says she has severe rashes and suspects a DTE Energy Co. smart meter is the cause.  DTE Energy’s Bob Sitkauskas says customers can opt out of using smart meters but have to pay an extra charge.  (AP)