CA Lawmakers Propose Sweeping Reforms for Public Utilities Commission

FRESNO, Calif. (KMJ) — Lawmakers have introduced sweeping reforms for the California Public Utilities Commission.

Democratic Assemblyman Mike Gatto, chair of the Utilities and Commerce Committee, says they aim to increase accountability and transparency within the agency.

Critics have long accused the CPUC of being overly cozy with the utilities it’s intended to regulate, such as PG&E.

Among the proposed reforms: making it easier for the public and watchdog groups to take part in CPUC proceedings, prohibiting previously regulated utility executives from serving on the commission for 2 years, and mandating that those who lobby the CPUC register, similar to requirements for those lobbying the legislature.

Governor Jerry Brown’s office says it’ll work closely with lawmakers to enact the changes within the coming months.