A recent state report has revealed that Californians are facing electric bills that are double the national average, primarily due to frequent wildfires and efforts to combat climate change. The high rates are making it difficult for the state to achieve its climate goals, as consumers are discouraged from transitioning to electric power for their cars and appliances. The report also highlighted that wildfire-related costs now make up a significant portion of electric bills, further burdening ratepayers.
In response to the increasing electric rates, California lawmakers are introducing bills to address affordability and other issues in the state. Assemblymember Chris Ward is proposing legislation to streamline building standards for small multi-family structures to expedite housing construction, while Assemblymember David Alvarez is seeking to lower gas prices by increasing the percentage of ethanol in gasoline. Incoming Assemblymember Carl DeMaio, on the other hand, is challenging the state’s “housing first” policy for homeless individuals by advocating for a shift towards emphasizing public safety instead.
Despite these efforts, it is unlikely that DeMaio’s bill to end the housing first model will gain traction in the Democratic-controlled legislature. Overall, the state is facing challenges related to high electric rates, wildfires, and housing affordability, all of which are intricately linked to its efforts to combat climate change. California lawmakers will need to carefully consider and prioritize measures to address these pressing issues in the upcoming legislative session.
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Photo credit voiceofsandiego.org
