Two critical climate and public health bills regarding virtual power plants and microplastics are on Governor Newsom’s desk. Immediate action is required. Tell him to sign these vital measures into law today

Overview of the Bills

AB 823 – Microplastics (Boerner)

This legislation bans the use of harmful microplastics as abrasives in personal care and cleaning products, and prohibits the use of plastic glitter in cosmetics.

• Impact: It would protect our oceans, soil, food, and bodies from millions of unnecessary plastic particles.
• Microplastics have been shown to damage DNA and disrupt gene activity in animals, increasing cancer risk.
• This bill builds on California’s microbead law with proven, low-cost enforcement, keeping California at the forefront of fighting plastic pollution.

AB 740 – Virtual Power Plants (Harabedian)

This bill requires a comprehensive plan to tap into the electricity stored in devices we already own—such as smart thermostats, electric vehicles (EVs), batteries, and water heaters—and network them into “virtual power plants.”

• Benefits: This initiative would enhance the reliability of our electric grid and lower energy costs for all Californians.
• A recent Gridlab/Kevala study found that VPPs could save $13.7 billion through 2030 by reducing expensive peak demand.
• The bill has passed the Legislature with overwhelming bipartisan support; now, Governor Newsom must sign it into law immediately.

Why Immediate Action is Necessary

Both bills are on Governor Newsom’s desk, and we cannot afford to wait. The decisions made today will have lasting impacts on our environment, public health, and energy costs. Your voice is crucial in urging the Governor to take swift action.

How You Can Help

Tell Governor Newsom to Sign the Bills

Here are sample messages you can copy, paste, and personalize on his contact page. Please note that the page requires emails to discuss only a single bill.

Subject: Urgent: Please Sign AB 823

Dear Governor Newsom,

I urge you to sign AB 823 immediately. This bill will protect Californians and our environment by banning microplastics and plastic glitter in everyday products. With strong public support, it is a common-sense solution for a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable future.

Please sign AB 823 without delay.

Thank you.

(Your Name)

Prefer to Call?

Here’s a quick script you can use. Call: (916) 445-2841

“Hello, my name is [Your Name], and I’m calling to urgently ask Governor Newsom to sign AB 740 and AB 823. These bills will lower electricity costs, reduce pollution, and protect Californians from harmful microplastics. Please sign both into law immediately. Thank you.”

Subject: Urgent: Please Sign AB 740

Dear Governor Newsom,

I urge you to sign AB 740 immediately. This bill will enhance grid reliability, reduce pollution, and save billions in energy costs by accelerating the adoption of virtual power plants. With strong public support, it is a common-sense, low-cost solution for a cleaner, healthier, and more affordable future.

Please sign AB 740 without delay.

Thank you.

(Your Name)

Act Now: Make the Call, Send the Emails

The bills are on the governor’s desk. Call or email his office today. By urging Governor Newsom to sign these bills, we can make a significant impact on California’s future. Together, we can help create a cleaner, healthier environment for everyone.