In November 2025, CalMutuals received a presentation from several of our Board members who also serve on the Public Water Agencies Group (PWAG), a coalition of 21 agencies focused on strengthening regional emergency preparedness. PWAG is taking a leading role in establishing a countywide, water-focused emergency management and mutual assistance network, known as the Emergency Response Group.
Several PWAG member agencies are sponsoring legislation this year to improve disaster response by ensuring utility workers, including water system operators, can quickly access critical infrastructure during wildfires and other emergencies. Rapid restoration of essential utility services is vital to protecting public safety and health. However, during recent disasters, including the 2025 Palisades and Eaton fires, many water operators reported significant challenges accessing their systems to refuel generators and keep water pumps functioning after power outages. These delays were largely due to the lack of recognized, standardized identification credentials.
To address this challenge, Sen. Bob Archuleta (CA–30) introduced legislation to create a statewide Utility Worker Identification Program, proposed to be administered by the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES). The program would provide official, standardized identification cards to qualified utility workers, allowing for faster, safer access to restricted areas during emergencies.
The CalMutuals Board of Directors voted to support this bill and is awaiting final legislative language. Once available, CalMutuals plans to provide a template letter of support for members to submit to the state Legislature, helping to strengthen advocacy efforts and ensure a timely response during future emergencies.