Electric service: rates: Family Electric Rate Assistance program.
The impact of SB1135 on state laws is significant as it reinforces the existing obligations of the California Public Utilities Commission to support low-income energy consumers. By requiring the continuation and promotion of the FERA program, the bill ensures that more families can benefit from reduced energy costs, aligning with the state’s goal to protect vulnerable populations from excessive energy expenditures. Moreover, the legislation allows major electrical corporations to enhance their marketing and outreach efforts to increase participation among eligible customers, emphasizing the need for awareness and accessibility in energy assistance programs.
Senate Bill No. 1135, introduced by Senator Bradford, is an act concerning the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program in California. The bill mandates the extension of the FERA program, which provides discounts to residential customers who are families of three or more persons with an annual gross household income between 200% and 250% of the federal poverty guidelines. This program aims to alleviate the financial burden of electricity costs for low-income families who might not qualify for the standard low-income assistance programs but still struggle to afford daily essentials, including energy expenses. Specifically, the bill stipulates that an 18% discount should be applied to the eligible customer’s bill, recognizing the higher energy usage typically associated with larger households.
Overall, the sentiment surrounding SB1135 appears to be favorable among proponents who advocate for increased support for working families facing economic challenges. Supporters argue that this legislation is a crucial step towards ensuring that families who struggle with energy costs receive necessary assistance. However, there might be concerns among resource allocation and funding, as discussions about the implementation and potential financial impacts on utility companies can lead to differing opinions among stakeholders, including utility companies and consumer advocacy groups.
Notably, SB1135 also introduces a new layer of regulatory consideration by creating a state-mandated local program that establishes specific requirements for utility operations. The legislation's requirement to continue and expand the FERA program, while also classifying violations of the Public Utilities Act as crimes, may generate debates on ethical implications and governance. Additionally, the bill states that no reimbursement is required for local agencies due to the nature of the costs incurred, which could be a point of contention for local jurisdictions concerned about unfunded mandates.