Utility Charges

Re “Utilities’ $500-Billion Power Play,” Column Left, by Alexander Cockburn, March 6: Yes, “The benefits of deregulation will go to the big industrial buyers,” and yes, “a scandal bigger than the $300-billion S&L; bailout unfolds with barely a public squeak.” There may be barely a public squeak at the moment; however, I foresee a thunderous shout from every corner of California when we ratepayers receive monthly electric bills with a “competition transition charge” of 30% to 40% in 1998.

Now is the time for a recall of elected officials who voted for this rip-off and plunder of ratepayers’ pocketbooks. Namely, 1996 state legislators still in office and drawing state paychecks. My blood is boiling.

GEORGE S. DE METT

Fullerton