- Annel Lopez Hailey
- Communications Director
- (916) 319-2077
- Annel.Lopez@asm.ca.gov
SACRAMENTO, CA. — As Californians attempt to seek financial relief from high utility rates, Assembly Bill (AB) 2666 on Utility Rate Adjustments by Assemblymember Tasha Boerner passed the Assembly Floor. AB 2666 would require the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) to determine if rates were reasonably set and adjust accordingly.
Following constituents concerns over the rate hikes imposed by San Diego Gas and Electric (SDG&E), Assemblymember Boerner requested an audit of the CPUC and the California Public Advocates Office in 2022. The audit found electricity rates increased between 16 percent and 23 percent from 2022 to 2023 by Southern California Edison, Pacific Gas and Electric, and SDG&E. That same year, these utility companies raised their natural gas prices between 27 percent and 162 percent. The state audit concluded that the CPUC must do better at protecting customers by increasing transparency and oversight of utility companies.
“Utility companies are making record profits as hardworking Californians look for ways to cut costs. With the cost of living going up, Californians are begging for relief. Families cannot afford to keep their lights on and feed their kids. Many are a month or more behind on paying their bills,” stated Assemblymember Boerner. “As the commission in charge of approving rate increases, the CPUC must also keep in mind the struggle of our working families and not prioritize the profits of investment-owned utility companies over ratepayers.”
AB 2666 passed the Assembly with 52 votes and is moving forward to the Senate.
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Assemblymember Tasha Boerner represents the 77th District, which encompasses Carlsbad, Encinitas, Solana Beach, Del Mar, Coronado and the coastal communities of La Jolla south to Downtown San Diego. You can learn more about Assemblymember Boerner at a77.asmdc.org, Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter/X.