PUC flags broad language, practical hurdles in bill to expand medical protections from utility disconnection PUC staff told the committee H.753’s proposal to let non‑physician licensed providers sign medical certificates and to extend certificate duration is well‑intentioned but uses broad language. PUC asked for clearer definitions and cautioned about rulemaking timelines and jurisdiction over small water systems.

Vermont's new bill aims to ease utility disconnections for chronically ill customers, but concerns over vague language and practical hurdles could complicate its implementation.

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#VT #CitizenPortal #HealthCareAccess #ConsumerProtections #VermontUtility #EnergyPolicyReform

Marine Planning Committee discusses impact of energy orders on West Coast fisheries Committee highlights executive orders affecting offshore oil leasing and fisheries management.

The Pacific Fishery Management Council is at a crossroads, grappling with controversial executive orders that could reshape energy policy and threaten West Coast fisheries.

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#WA #CitizenPortal #MarineResourceManagement #SustainableFishing #EnergyPolicyReform

California poised to lower energy costs with strong backing for SB 540 bill California is poised to potentially lower energy costs for residents thanks to a bill receiving strong backing and initial approval. SB 540, championed by Senator Becker, has secured unanimous support from the Senate Energy, Utilities and Communications Committee. This legislation enables the California Independent System Operator (CAISO) and California utilities to participate in a larger, interconnected regional energy market overseen by an independent body. A diverse group of stakeholders, including the California Chamber of Commerce, labor organizations, consumer advocates, environmental groups, technology firms, clean energy companies, and transportation entities, are supporting the bill. They assert that it will not only lead to more affordable electricity for Californians but also safeguard the state's established policies regarding environmental protection, reliability, and other public interests. Analysis suggests that SB 540 holds the potential to generate cost savings for consumers and reduce energy curtailments. A recent study has highlighted the prospective advantages of a regionally integrated energy market. Importantly, the bill is designed to maintain California’s ability to achieve its ambitious clean energy targets. The bill now advances to the Senate Appropriations Committee for further consideration. Jon Kendrick, a policy advocate at the California Chamber of Commerce, brings significant experience in energy and environmental policy to this effort, previously serving as senior counsel at Buchalter.

California poised to lower energy costs with strong backing for SB 540 bill #CAISO #CaliforniaEnergy #CleanEnergyBill #RegionalMarket #SustainabilityInitiatives #EnergyPolicyReform