Staff Organizer Charlotte Stevens with Senate President Pro Temp Mike McGuire and fellow IBEW delegates.
Sacramento – This year’s California State Association of Electrical Workers (CSAEW) Conference provided an important platform for advocacy and education on critical issues affecting IBEW members and the communities they serve.
More than a hundred delegates gathered in Sacramento to discuss key legislative priorities and engage in direct lobbying efforts.
Business Manager Bob Dean led IBEW Local 1245’s delegation which included Senior Assistant Business Managers Al Fortier and Ralph Armstrong, Assistant Business Manager Hunter Stern, Staff Organizers Melissa Echeverria and Charlotte Stevens, and Organizing Steward Lead Alvin Dayoan.
Assemblymember Maggie Krell and 1245 Staff Organizer Melissa Echeverria
Former labor leader and Assemblymember Liz Ortega kicked off the conference with a passionate speech, emphasizing the importance of organized labor in shaping policy. Her words resonated deeply with the crowd, fueling their drive to advocate for legislation that strengthens protections for workers.
Senate President Pro Temp Mike McGuire, Senator Dave Cortese, and Assemblymember Chris Rogers, also spoke. These influential political leaders reaffirmed their commitment to labor and pledged to continue supporting IBEW’s legislative goals.
On the second day, Lobbyist Scott Wetch delivered a detailed briefing on the current slate of legislative bills, breaking down their potential impact on IBEW members before delegates began door knocking and meeting with Senators and Assemblymembers to push for support (or opposition) on key bills that affect IBEW members.
Organizing Steward Lead Alvin Dayoan with Assemblymember Liz Ortega and fellow IBEW delegates.
The legislative priorities presented by the CSAEW included permit streamlining, securing the viability of wildfire funds, enhancing penalties for assault or battery committed against public utility employees, and the pressing need for Net Energy Metering (NEM) reform to alleviate cost burdens on non-solar customers.
“Our lobbying efforts really made a difference in the future of labor. We’re not just fighting for our members, we’re fighting for fairness for all Californians,” said Dayoan. “These bills are about creating a safer, more equitable environment for working people across the state.”
Ninth District International Vice President Dave Reaves, capped the conference at the final plenary, emphasizing IBEW’s unwavering commitment to upholding worker rights. Reaves’ address was a powerful reminder of the collective strength of the IBEW and the ongoing efforts to ensure a secure future for working families.
Sr Assistant Business Manager Al Fortier and Organizing Steward Lead Alvin Dayoan with fellow IBEW delegates having a discussion with Assemblymember Mia Bonta.
As the conference concluded, the collective resolve of the CSAEW delegation was clear. With their legislative priorities in motion and a renewed sense of solidarity, IBEW members left Sacramento with a clear mission: to continue fighting for a better, safer future for the workers of the IBEW, their families, and the communities they serve.
– Melissa Echeverria, IBEW 1245 Staff Organizer