Meeting with Senator Archuleta’s Office on SB 1001

CUEA’s Executive Director engaged with staff from Senator Archuleta’s office (D-21st District), author of SB 1001—a bill with major implications for all California utilities by prescribing disaster zone access. This bill started with local sponsorship, some of which are our water members, aiming at addressing access denials seen in events like the 2025 LA fires. SB 1001 (introduced 2026, progressing through committees) requires Cal OES to create a Utility Worker Identification Card Program, issuing cards to verified employees of  utility corporations and districts. These cards grant authorized access to closed emergency areas (e.g., fires, floods, earthquakes) for public health protection, life/property preservation, and rapid water service restoration—overriding general closures unless unsafe. The bill is still in motion and amendments are still being made.