Bill Text: CA ACR153 | 2023-2024 | Regular Session | Chaptered

California Assembly Concurrent Resolution 153

Bill Title: California Utility Workers Appreciation Day.

Spectrum: Moderate Partisan Bill (Democrat 54-16)

Status: (Passed) 2024-04-16 - Chaptered by Secretary of State - Res. Chapter 40, Statutes of 2024. [ACR153 Detail]

Download: California-2023-ACR153-Chaptered.html

Assembly Concurrent Resolution No. 153

CHAPTER 40

Relative to public utilities.

[ Filed with Secretary of State April 16, 2024. ]

LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGEST

ACR 153, Petrie-Norris. California Utility Workers Appreciation Day.

This measure would designate March 14 of each year as California Utility Workers Appreciation Day.

Fiscal Committee: NO

WHEREAS, The State of California recognizes the invaluable contributions of utility workers to the well-being and safety of its residents; and

WHEREAS, Utility workers tirelessly dedicate themselves to providing essential services, including electricity, gas, and water, ensuring that Californians have access to vital resources for daily living, business operations, and emergency response; and

WHEREAS, Utility workers exhibit exceptional bravery, resilience, and dedication, often working in hazardous conditions, adverse weather, and during emergencies such as wildfires, storms, and earthquakes, to restore services promptly and safeguard public health and safety; and

WHEREAS, Utility workers valiantly risk their lives amidst tumultuous conditions, including hurricane-force storms and active wildfire zones, in their unwavering commitment to restoring services to communities in need; and

WHEREAS, Utility lineworkers consistently hold positions among the top three most hazardous professions, bearing a national on-the-job fatality rate of 42 deaths per 100,000 workers annually; and

WHEREAS, Utility workers frequently encounter workplace harassment and violence perpetrated by disgruntled property owners, a phenomenon that is well-documented in numerous reports and studies; and

WHEREAS, Utility workers demonstrate unwavering commitment to serving their communities, often sacrificing personal comfort and time with their families to ensure the continuous functioning of critical infrastructure and the uninterrupted delivery of essential services; and

WHEREAS, Utility workers play an indispensable role in supporting California’s transition to sustainable energy sources, implementing innovative technologies, and enhancing the resilience of infrastructure to address the challenges of climate change and ensure a sustainable future for all residents; and

WHEREAS, Utility workers undertake the arduous task of maintaining and repairing electricity, gas, and water lines, thereby ensuring the safe and reliable distribution of electricity, natural gas, and water to homes, businesses, hospitals, schools, and other essential facilities throughout the state; and

WHEREAS, Utility workers routinely inspect, repair, and upgrade electrical, gas, and water infrastructure, identifying and mitigating potential hazards to prevent service disruptions, accidents, and environmental harm, thereby safeguarding the well-being and security of Californians; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the Assembly of the State of California, the Senate thereof concurring, That the Legislature hereby designates March 14 as California Utility Workers Appreciation Day to be observed annually as a day for residents, businesses, and communities to express their gratitude and support for utility workers, recognizing their vital contributions and commitment to the well-being of the state; and be it further

Resolved, That the Chief Clerk of the Assembly transmit copies of this resolution to the author for appropriate distribution.