The Grapevine: 2/7/23
Good morning. State energy regulators take aim at natural gas prices, a controversial solar project comes up for consideration (again), and San Francisco closes a street known for sex work. Here's what you need to know:
- California's energy regulators will meet this morning to discuss natural gas prices, after a 300% spike in wholesale rates sent utility bills soaring. Gov. Gavin Newsom has called on the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to investigate. (https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2023-02-06/gas-probe-gavin-newsom-california)
- The California legislature appears poised to pass a bill that would allow its staffers to unionize, challenging the legislature's longstanding practice of exempting itself from laws on matters ranging from workers' rights to open records. (https://calmatters.org/politics/california-legislature/2023/02/california-legislature-rules-for-thee/)
- The California Department of Fish and Wildlife is reviewing a revised plan for a controversial solar project in the Mojave Desert, which conservationists say could destroy habitats for native wildlife and disrupt a delicate, complex desert ecosystem. (https://www.latimes.com/environment/story/2023-02-06/mojave-desert-solar-energy-project-angers-conservationists)
- San Francisco officials will barricade a stretch of street in the city's Mission District known for sex work amid a surge of violence and requests for assistance from residents. (https://www.sfchronicle.com/sf/article/s-f-to-barricade-mission-district-street-over-17767579.php)
- All but one candidate in the special election to replace former Los Angeles city councilmember Nury Martinez expressed support for measures to improve infrastructure for bikes, transit, and pedestrians in the San Fernando Valley district. (https://laist.com/news/politics/candidates-to-replace-ex-la-councilmember-martinez-face-off-for-the-first-time)
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