WASHINGTON, DC (October 15, 2021) – Utility Workers Union of America (UWUA), AFL-CIO President James Slevin released the following statement today on a new law in California, recently signed by Governor Newsom, that improves safety protections for gas utility workers.
“Congratulations to the leadership and members of Local 132 on successfully fighting for improved utility safety standards that are now law in California. The Wade Kilpatrick Gas Safety Act enacts important reforms that make work safer for our members who operate and maintain gas infrastructure. Imposing tougher financial penalties on contractors who take short cuts and fail to follow proper safety protocols such as calling 811 will better protect our members and consumers.
“The gas pipeline explosion that killed our Local 132 brother, Wade Kilpatrick should have never happened. However, we’re hopeful these penalties help put an end to future preventable incidents.”