Bill > SB24

This bill introduces several key provisions affecting electrical and gas corporations in California. First, it prohibits these utilities from recording expenses related to political influence activities, promotional advertising, or opposing municipal utility services to accounts that recover costs from ratepayers. The bill requires corporations to clearly disclose in all advertising whether shareholders or ratepayers are funding the advertisements. Utilities must submit annual reports to the Public Utilities Commission detailing expenses associated with these activities, including employee information, compensation, and vendor costs. The commission is authorized to assess civil penalties for violations and must make these reports publicly available. Additionally, the bill prevents utilities from terminating residential or commercial service during days when the local air quality index (AQI) is in the "unhealthy for sensitive groups" category or worse, and for three days afterward. If service is terminated during such periods, utilities must restore it within 24 hours and notify customers about repayment options. These provisions aim to increase transparency in utility spending, protect ratepayers from subsidizing political activities, and safeguard public health by preventing service disruptions during poor air quality conditions.

Budget and Finance, Justice, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260SB24