Chico Times

Assembly Republican Leader James Gallagher has put forward a new bill aimed at reducing electricity rates in California by at least 30%. The proposed legislation, Assembly Bill 286, seeks to provide relief for residents facing some of the highest utility costs in the United States.

Gallagher expressed concern over the impact of high electricity bills on working families. He stated, “The cost of everything has skyrocketed under Gavin Newsom, but high electric bills hit working families especially hard.” He criticized what he called "expensive mandates from Democrat politicians" and emphasized that this is an opportunity for the Legislature to prioritize affordability.

Since Governor Gavin Newsom took office in January 2019, electricity rates in California have increased by nearly 80%, making them the second-highest in the nation. Residents are paying almost twice as much as the national average.

If passed, AB 286 would mandate that the Public Utilities Commission cut per-kilowatt-hour rates by no less than 30%, providing immediate financial relief to consumers throughout California.

This legislative approach follows a pattern where state lawmakers direct agencies toward specific policy goals. Previous examples include AB 1279 (2022), which aims for zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2045, and SB 100 (2018), targeting 100% renewable energy by the same year.

AB 286 revisits last year's proposal under AB 2205, which was halted by Assembly Democrats before it could be discussed or voted on in committee.

Assembly Republican Leader James Gallagher serves California’s 3rd Assembly District, encompassing Butte, Glenn, Sutter, Tehama, Yuba and part of Placer counties.