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This week, I presented an amendment to overturn the additional fixed-charge on electricity bills based on income levels.
The so-called ‘Hard Work Utility Tax’ was enabled by a bill pushed by the supermajority party last legislative session.
In response, I and my Senate Republican colleagues attempted to overturn the original bill and put an end to this unfair taxation scheme. The amendment was defeated on a party-line vote.
Click here to see the vote count and here to watch the video of the presentation on the Senate Floor.
This proposed billing model places an unfair burden on hardworking families and individuals in California, who already face some of the highest utility bills in the nation.
I receive many calls and emails from constituents faced with the hardship of high cost of energy. The middle class is suffering from out-of-touch, bureaucratic policies being pushed through Sacramento without any public input.
We would like to have a real debate and discussion about what a pricing model like this income-based one would do to Californians, but the supermajority party would rather spend time discussing pet projects
The cost of living in California is extremely high, with residents paying up to 80% higher utility rates than the national average, and this poorly thought out proposal, which passed without a policy hearing or a discussion, will only make it more difficult for working families to afford basics like electricity.
My colleagues and I will not give up the fight and will continue to look for solutions on these issues in Sacramento.
Thank you for this opportunity to be of service.