SACRAMENTO, Calif. /California Newswire/ — Earlier today, Calif. Assemblyman Mike Gatto (D-Glendale) was appointed chairman of the Assembly’s formidable Utilities and Commerce Committee, overseeing legislation that regulates public utilities, natural gas, energy (including renewable energy), common carriers, entities like Uber/Lyft, and general commerce in the state. He replaces Assembly Speaker designee Anthony Rendon (D-Lakewood).
“I thank Speaker Atkins and my colleagues for giving me the opportunity to serve as chairman of this key committee,” said Gatto. “I’m looking forward to continuing my predecessor’s excellent work, and ensuring that we craft sound policies in these critical subject areas.”
Chairman Gatto also announced that the committee will open an inquiry into the Porter Ranch gas leak, and hold a hearing in the same Los Angeles suburb, where residents have been coping with noxious fumes for months.
“The people have questions regarding how this could happen and whether there is a risk that it could happen again,” said Gatto. “It is up to those of us who represent the people to find some answers.”
This will be Gatto’s third chairmanship. He previously served as Chairman of the Assembly Committee on Appropriations (which sets legislative fiscal policy), and the Assembly Committee on Consumer Protection & Privacy. Gatto has also served as Assistant Speaker Pro Tempore.
Mike Gatto is the Chairman of the Utilities & Commerce Committee and the longest-serving current member of the State Assembly. He represents California’s 43rd Assembly District, which includes Burbank, Glendale, La Cañada Flintridge, La Crescenta, Montrose, and the Los Angeles neighborhoods of Atwater Village, East Hollywood, Franklin Hills, Hollywood Hills, Los Feliz, and Silver Lake. www.asm.ca.gov/gatto
