California Public Utilities Commission
505 Van Ness Ave., San Francisco

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE MEDIA ADVISORY

Media Contact: Terrie Prosper, 415.703.1366, news@cpuc.ca.gov

CPUC WORKSHOP SEEKS WAYS TO
INCREASE PUBLIC PARTICIPATION

SAN FRANCISCO, September 9, 2011 -- The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) will hold a workshop to gain input on ways to increase public participation in the CPUC's decision-making process.

When: September 13, 2011, 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Where: CPUC Auditorium, 505 Van Ness Ave., San Francisco; also available via video webcast in real-time and archived at www.californiaadmin.com/cpuc.shtml.

There are many opportunities to participate in the CPUC's processes, ranging from providing opinion by a phone call or in writing (email or letter) or through becoming an active participant in a formal process. The CPUC values and welcomes public input in order to make better informed decisions.

Topics of discussion at the workshop include improving and expanding notices of Public Participation Hearings, adding value to Public Participation Hearings, and encouraging public input and participation through information written comments. The agenda and additional information are available at: www.cpuc.ca.gov/PPHWorkshop.

The workshop, organized by Commissioner Mike Florio and the CPUC's Public Advisor's Office, will provide the opportunity for discussion of the challenges to public participation and proposals for improvements. The CPUC recognizes that external stakeholders such as community based organizations, intervenors, consumers, and utilities are integral to its decision-making process, and as such, their participation is critical to a fruitful discussion.

There may be a quorum of Commissioners at this workshop; however, there will be no voting or conducting of regular CPUC business.

American Sign Language interpreters will be provided at the workshop. If you need language interpreters, or if you require special accommodations, please send an email to public.advisor@cpuc.ca.gov or call toll free 866-849-8390.

For more information on the CPUC, please visit www.cpuc.ca.gov.

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