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State should call violentcrimes what they are
Dan Walters is right on with his column on the problems with Proposition 57 (“Tricky state measure lets violent felons get released,” Page 7, Dec. 8). We voters were sold a lie.
One of the foundational problems with California law is the ridiculous definitions of what is a violent crime. How is committing domestic violence not a violent crime? Rape of an unconscious person is not a violent crime. Trafficking a child for prostitution is not a violent crime. Assault with a deadly weapon is not a violent crime. Stabbing and slashing a girlfriend is not a “violent” crime.
We need to fix this flaw in the California penal code.
Andrea PuckSanta Clara
PUC decision isan egregious one
The PUC decision to greatly reduce incentives for rooftop solar installations is simply outrageous. It is the most egregious step backward in averting climate change.
The argument that this will help grid reliability is disingenuous. Getting more to install solar reduces peak demand, and promotes energy independence. Now that helps the grid. Reducing energy demand with solar will reduce energy costs and that will provide relief for low-income users.
It’s time to clean up the PG&E-embedded PUC once and for all, and remove its members so the public can appoint leaders that truly work in the public’s interest. It is time to write your legislators and put a stop to this smoke and mirrors effort to control the public’s right to energy.
Mark GrzanMorgan Hill
Push Congress to passenvironmental justice bill
Congress must redress the harm done by fossil fuels by passing the Environmental Justice for All Act. This bill would codify environmental justice provisions into law to ensure that our new energy system leaves no one behind.
The bill would incorporate environmental justice in the Civil Rights Act of 1964; strengthen environmental review requirements; fund new health equity grant programs; authorize training and education grants; direct federal agencies to collect data and to use that research to inform regulatory policy.
This is a no-brainer. By investing in underserved communities, policymakers can help ensure a just and equitable clean energy transition. My congresswoman, Anna Eshoo, and one of our senators, Alex Padilla, are co-sponsors. Please call your congressional representatives to co-sponsor and vote for the Environmental Justice for All Act.
Ed MilnerMountain View
Sinema’s switch isa ploy for attention
Re. “Independent Sinema brings intrigue to Arizona Senate race,” Page A4, Dec. 10:
The confetti had barely been swept up in the aftermath of Raphael Warnock’s critical victory in the hotly contested Georgia senatorial race when Arizona Sen. Kyrsten Sinema, fearing irrelevancy, declared her intention to run as an Independent.
As the article suggests Sinema’s primary focus now, and throughout her political career, “is her boundless ability to draw attention to herself.” With the Senate majority tilting blue the tiresome self-serving antics of both Sinema and West Virginia’s Joe Manchin are, hopefully, behind us.
One hopes that the earnest citizens of Arizona finally realize that Sinema doesn’t give a damn about them or the countless political and social challenges that confront her state and this country. Rather, like an aging prom queen, she endeavors to hold on to her tiara.
Barry Goldman-HallSan Jose
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