Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Utilities Regulation topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Assembly committee advances AB 13 to increase legislative oversight of California Public Utilities Commission
Summary
The Assembly Utilities and Energy Committee voted to pass Assembly Bill 13 to appropriations after testimony from the billauthor and supporters who described the measure as a step to improve transparency, geographic and demographic diversity on the California Public Utilities Commission and faster reporting after rate decisions.
Assemblymember Megan Ransom introduced Assembly Bill 13 to the Assembly Committee on Utilities and Energy, asking the panel to approve changes she said would make the California Public Utilities Commission more accountable and responsive to ratepayers.
"AB 13 aims to enhance the CPUC's oversight capabilities by promoting a more diverse and accountable board, increasing transparency on rate hikes, and thereby improving the public trust," Assemblymember Ransom told the committee. She said the bill would add legislative liaisons, require annual reporting on affordability and pending rate actions, allow appointment of a non-governmental public advocate with public-interest-law experience, and require the CPUC to report to the Legislature within 15 days after finalizing a rate-setting decision.
Supporters who testified said the reforms are needed to address high utility bills and perceived regulatory capture at the CPUC. Jeff Shields, a former general manager of multiple electric utilities and past board treasurer for the Utility Reform Network, described what he called "flagrant abuses" and urged the committee to act. Former CPUC Commissioner Loretta Lynch told members the Legislature already has plenary control over the commission through Article 12, Section 3 of the California Constitution and said legislative liaisons could improve timely oversight and transparency.
Other public-support witnesses included Will Abrams, a wildfire survivor who said rate hikes have harmed households and survivors; Clifton Wilson, representing the San Joaquin County Board of Supervisors; and advocacy representatives from TURN and a utility representative from San Diego Gas & Electric, who said SDG&E was "support if amended" and working with the author.
Committee members expressed general support for transparency and accountability but some members signaled concerns about specific details and the scale of the reforms. Several members said they wanted follow-up conversations with the author about structure and implementation; others said they supported the bill as a first step.
The committee approved AB 13 as amended and ordered it to the Appropriations Committee. The committee roll call recorded the motion passed with an affirmative vote in committee (aye vote recorded as 18).
