STATEMENT - Leader Atkins Reacts to Governor Newsom’s Wildfire Strike Team Report

SACRAMENTO – California Senate President pro Tempore Toni G. Atkins (D-San Diego) issued the following statement regarding Governor Gavin Newsom’s report to address wildfires and climate change:

“I commend Governor Newsom for putting forward his vision for addressing wildfires and how California can meet its ambitious climate change goals. His report is thorough, substantive and well-researched. As legislators, we will continue to address these critical issues – as we did last year with Senate Bill 901. 

“The next fire season is quickly approaching and the risk to ratepayers of not acting is simply too high. This report confirms our fear that ratepayers are on the hook for large rate increases if we do nothing. The Senate will be diving into the details of the report over the coming weeks and we will ensure an open and transparent process in developing solutions. The priority of Senate Democrats will be protecting ratepayers, fire victims, and the reliability of electric and gas service to California’s consumers. In addition, we will remain vigilant in limiting any negative impacts on California’s clean air and climate goals.”

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Toni G. Atkins is President pro Tempore of the California Senate. Having previously served as Speaker of the California Assembly, she began her tenure in the Senate in 2016. As Senator for District 39, she represents the cities of San Diego, Coronado, Del Mar and Solana Beach. Website of President pro Tempore Toni G. Atkins: www.senate.ca.gov/Atkins