A senator from California is launching a petition to combat exorbitant utility bills. It happens after the California Public Utilities Commission recently approved a fixed levy on your monthly bills.
According to State Senator Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh, the petition’s driving force, “many of them are extremely concerned about the cost of living in California.”
Ochoa Bogh frequently hears complaints from her constituents on the cost of their utilities. She represents the state’s 23rd district, which includes a portion of the counties of Riverside, San Bernardino, and Los Angeles. However, they will also be impacted by the CPUC’s approval of a $24.15 fixed cost, which is scheduled to take effect in 2025, much as SDG&E customers.
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According to the CPUC, the action will lower electricity costs and lessen lower-income clients’ bills. Ochoa Bogh launched the petition to oppose it, in part because she isn’t persuaded. The petition’s other driving force is to educate the public about the process and people involved in setting prices, in this case, a board that the governor appoints.
According to Ochoa Bogh, “all Californians should be aware of what’s happening in the state of California and how these decisions are affecting them.”
6,000 people have signed the petition as of right now. Ochoa Bogh brought those signatures to the CPUC earlier this week. She calls on more people to become involved going forward by signing the petition and pushing other lawmakers to voice their opinions as well.
“Can you imagine if every lawmaker and Californian was informed, signed a petition, and forwarded it to the commission or the governor? Senator Ochoa Bogh stated, “It would put pressure on us to make sure we have more accountability.”
Utility Consumers’ Action Network Executive Director Edward Lopez applauds the effort.
In the end, the commission’s role is to regulate the utilities and ensure that any suggested rate hikes, increases, or adjustments are fair. I’m not sure how we can be much clearer, other than maybe making it more louder that the commission must act now and fulfill its primary responsibility,” Lopez remarked.
Utility Consumers’ Action Network has been working nonstop to lower tariffs and prevent the imposition of a fixed fee. Although there is no legislative remedy for this petition, Lopez believes that if more individuals voice their opposition to the CPUC’s rulings, ultimately something will happen.
“The battle is uphill. We refuse to surrender to the struggle, “said Lopez.
