Assemblyman Gatto receives James Hansen Courage Award

Assemblyman Mike Gatto (D-Los Angeles) will be presented with the James Hansen Courage Award on Thursday from Environmental Progress for his efforts to extensively reform the California Public Utilities Commission after several scandals plagued the commission.

“I’m deeply honored to receive the James Hansen Courage Award from Environmental Progress on the hard work to reform the CPUC,” said Gatto. “The fight for CPUC reform is not over, and I remain committed to continuing the efforts that are sorely needed to bring transparency to the process, help keep rates low and ensure the safety of Californians.”

This year Gatto introduced ACA 11, a constitutional amendment to restructure and reform the CPUC. He later introduced AB 2903 to increase safety, accountability and oversight by creating a centralized, independent ethics ombudsperson. The measure would have also transferred several transportation and enforcement responsibilities of the CPUC in order to focus on safety.

Environmental Progress created the award “in honor of individuals and organizations who have dedicated great courage in advocating for the public and environmental interest against powerful forces and difficult circumstances.” Hansen has for 30 years overcome censorship and harassment from powerful institutions to help bring greater attention to climate change and its solutions.

Mike Gatto is the longest-serving current member of the state assembly. He represents California’s 43rd Assembly District, which includes Los Angeles, Burbank, and Glendale. www.asm.ca.gov/gatto