Heated debate as Assembly considers voluntary gas‑service replacement incentives in AB 23 13

Assemblymember Berman presented AB 23 13 as a voluntary program allowing customers with planned gas-service-line replacement to discontinue gas service and use a portion of funds to electrify their homes. Sponsor remarks emphasized consumer choice and protections for continuing gas customers.

Opponents—including Assemblymember De Maio and Assemblymember Tangipa—argued the bill sets the foundation for eventual bans on gas appliances and warned that the program could raise utility fees for other consumers. "This is just the very 1st step of it," De Maio said, calling the proposal “insane” and asserting it would increase costs on other Californians. Supporters, including Assemblymember Rogers and Berman, described the measure as voluntary and intended to reduce costs for continuing gas customers.

The debate was robust and included references to studies and broader energy policy. The clerk recorded the roll and the transcript shows the measure’s Senate amendments were concurred in with recorded votes.

Why it matters: The bill affects energy transition policy, consumer costs, and utility rate design. It underscores the political tension around electrification incentives and affordability concerns.

Next steps: The Assembly recorded concurrence in the Senate amendments and the bill advanced per the legislative calendar.