Dear Marin volunteers!
Thanks to all of the many of you who called Senator McGuire's office this week about SB 396, the very concerning bill that enables PG&E’s to codify its worst behavior and cut any tree, anywhere, at any time, with NO RECOURSE to the homeowner. This bill also unfairly shifts the burden of liability to the property owner, even if the property owner objects to the work being done.
Together with other coalition representatives, we met with Senator McGuire's office on Tuesday, and are very happy to report that the Senator is OPPOSED to this bill. While VERY pleased to hear this news, we were not entirely surprised, since he has led the charge in the legislature for years on wildfire prevention and is a leading voice in holding PG&E accountable.
Unlike many members of the California legislature, Senator McGuire, who was appointed Senate Majority Leader this year, accepts no campaign contributions from PG&E. We hope that the fact that the Senate Majority Leader, a committed wildfire prevention advocate with no skin in the game with PG&E, opposes the bill will influence many of his Senate colleagues to also stand up for a real solution to wildfires - fixing the wires instead of felling the trees!
While the news of Senator McGuire's opposition is good, the fight is far from over. PG&E and its lobbyists hold major sway in Sacramento. We at IndiMarin will continue to work with other coalition partners throughout the region to lobby against this bill and will remain in touch with Senator McGuire's office on ways we can help.
YOUR CALLS MADE A DIFFERENCE! Now, our ally in the Senate can tell his colleagues that his phone rang off the hook with calls from constituents upset about this ill-advised and industry-friendly bill. This is the power of our individual voices when we organize together for the greater good.
We will continue to the fight and keep you apprised
Thanks to you, and to "Senator Mike" for taking action to save our beloved trees in Northern California.
The IndiMarin Steering Committee - Joy, Amy, Andie, Laurie, Betsy, Betty and Susan
