(January 8, 2001) -- Democrat Assembly Speaker Robert Hertzberg and Republican Minority Leader Bill Campbell have announced formation of a new bipartisan committee that "will hold public hearings across the state, shape legislation and probe financial practices among utilities and generators." The committee will include LB-Carson area Assemblywoman Jenny Oropeza, a Democrat.

A press release from the Assembly speaker says that in addition to "shaping the state's energy policy during the special session, the "Assembly Committee on Energy Costs and Availability" will "hold public hearings across the state, seeking comment from ratepayers, small-business owners and consumers on how the energy crunch is affecting them."

During her tenure on the LB City Council, Ms. Oropeza strongly opposed any reduction in LB City Hall's then-10% utility users tax imposed on consumers' utility bills.

Like many legislative candidates in both major parties, Ms. Oropeza received campaign contributions from Edison International, parent company of Southern California Edison. State records show Ms. Oropeza received contributions totalling $3,500 in connection with her recent Assembly race.

Other LB area state legislators (who are not part of the new "Assembly Committee on Energy Costs and Availability") also received campaign contributions from Edison International. They include Assemblyman Alan Lowenthal ($5,000), Assemblywoman Sally Havice ($750) and State Senator Betty Karnette ($1,000).

The new "Assembly Committee on Energy Costs and Availability" will be chaired by Assemblyman Roderick Wright (D., South Central L.A.).