The Assembly Telecommunications and Utilities Committee amended and released AB 5079 on June 25 to recognize electrical linemen and other utility workers as first responders during weather-related states of emergency. The amendment replaces the defined term "first responder lineman" with "first responder electrical lineman or first responder utility worker" and expands coverage to include water service.

Blaine Martiak of Local 456 and other labor witnesses described storm-response work as hazardous and long-duration: "Linemen consistently work 16-hour days in dangerous storms and aftermath environments," Martiak said, arguing for priority access and coordination with emergency responders. Supporters pointed to risks from fallen trees, flooded areas, live power lines and the need to restore power to hospitals and residents who rely on electrically operated medical devices.

Opponents and groups seeking amendments — including construction contractors and certain labor organizations — expressed concern that the bill's language could be interpreted broadly and might create operational conflicts or pressure on 911 services. Committee members discussed scope questions: which trades and ancillary crafts (crane operators, carpenters, pump operators) who support long-duration storm deployments should qualify for expedited access and how to avoid overburdening emergency call centers.

Sponsors and stakeholders said they will work on amendments to clarify which utility and allied trades qualify and to refine coordination protocols with 911 and other first-responder systems. The committee recorded a roll-call vote and released the bill after amendments; the transcript shows a mix of yes and no votes with the bill ultimately released for further action.