Publication: L.A. Times

UCLA Expert: Gregory Pierce: Adjunct Assistant Professor, Luskin School of Public Affairs; Co-Director, Luskin Center for Innovation; Co-Director, UCLA Water Resources Group; Member, Institute of the Environment and Sustainability; Senior Researcher, Water and Transportation Initiatives

Synopsis: The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power will end water and power shutoffs for low-income customers who can’t afford to pay. Research from UCLA’s Luskin Center shows that low-income communities and communities of color are disproportionately affected by utility debt and shutoffs.

UCLA News: Pierce said in a statement that the research and data “show the importance and need for this type of action. “Protection from utility shutoffs for those enrolled in low-income discount programs will help lessen the debt burden for LADWP’s most vulnerable customers,” he said.

Read more at L.A. Times.