Marin Lawmaker Proposes Opt Out Bill On Smart Meters
SAN RAFAEL (KCBS) _ A Marin Assemblyman has introduced a bill that would allow customers to opt out of Pacific Gas and Electric's Smart Meter program.
Many customers in Marin County said they are afraid of radio frequency emissions. The town of Fairfax has even voted to put a moratorium on the installation of the devices for a year.
KCBS' Bob Melrose Reports:
Assemblyman Jared Huffman's bill would allow customers afraid of physical issues to opt out of the Smart Meter program.
"Customers who are concerned about possible health effects or believe that they suffer adverse effects from these wireless transmitters can have the benefits of a Smart Meter and be part of the Smart Grid," he said. "But do it through a more conventional, wired-based technology."
Paul Moreno, a spokesman for PG&E, said the utility is trying to find a way to eliminate wireless transmissions, but have people still be part of the program.
"We understand our customers have concerns and although the great weight of scientific evidence demonstrates that radio frequencies from Smart Meters are safe, we take the customer's concerns seriously," said Moreno.
Huffman's bill is expected to go to the Assembly Utilities and Commerce Committee in the early spring.
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