Legislative Update

October 1, 2024

Energy Affordability Wins!

AB 2847: Ensures that utilities are transparent about the true costs of their projects, providing clarity on how your money is being spent. 

AB 3264: Requires the CPUC and Energy Commission to study alternative financing for transmission, as well as create affordability metrics that will reflect total household spending on energy-related costs — including transportation fuels, propane, etc.

SB 1142: Directs the CPUC to consider and adopt additional protections to prevent utility customers from being disconnected from utility service or help them get reconnected.  

AB 3263 (Vetoed): This bill would have burdened ratepayers with future bill increases in exchange for a short-term reduction.

SB 1130: Would require the Public Utilities Commission by June 1, 2025, to review utilities’ reports annually to ensure it has sufficiently enrolled eligible households in the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program.

Phone and Broadband Equity Wins!

AB 2765 (TURN-sponsored): New law requires the Public Utilities Commission to develop and implement backup electricity so telecommunications providers can maintain service for at least 72 hours. 

AB 2797 (Died in Committee): This bill would no longer require a telephone corporation seeking relief from carrier of last resort obligations to be a carrier of last resort (or to have any carrier of last resort obligations). 

SB 1383 (Vetoed): This bill would make money in the PUC’s Broadband Public Housing Account available for grants and loans to finance projects connecting broadband networks for residents of low-income communities.