California Assembly Votes to Establish Utility Workers Appreciation Day

On March 14, the members of the California State Assembly voted to pass ACR 153, establishing the state’s official Utility Workers Appreciation Day.

The passage of this measure represents a monumental moment for IBEW 1245 as the primary advocate of ACR 153.

California Assembly Member Dottie Petrie-Norris, Chair of the Utilities and Energy Committee sponsored the Utility Worker Appreciation Day Resolution

Dozens of 1245 members filled the Assembly chambers to express support for the resolution, which was introduced by Assembly Utilities and Energy Committee Chair Cottie Petrie-Norris. IBEW 1245 Business Manager Bob Dean was recognized on the Assembly floor for his advocacy on behalf of tens of thousands of IBEW utility workers, and the Assembly members rose to their feet to commend the hard-working IBEW members who power California before voting unanimously in favor of ACR 153.

The resolution reads:

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

IBEW members observed the vote from the balcony of the Assembly chambers

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

Members of the Assembly rise to their feet to recognize IBEW 1245 utility workers.

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

The vote comes on the heels of IBEW’s successful Utility Workers Day of Action at the Capitol yesterday, where we showcased our members’ unique and complex skills and training, while also demonstrating the values they share as members of the IBEW – including putting safety first, looking out for one another, and performing each job with the expertise that only come from IBEW-backed training and on-the-job experience. View highlights from the Day of Action here.

California Assembly Votes to Establish Utility Workers Appreciation Day

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