Watts tore apart the auction proposal. The measure previously gave the PUCO the option of rolling back the rate reduction if competition does not develop in Ohio's electricity market. Sen. Gregory L. DiDonato of New Philadelphia renewed the battle he lost last week in committee to try to provide a safety net for some of the 23,000 utility workers in the state who fear they may lose their jobs with the onset of electricity competition. He unsuccessfully sought approval of an amendment to provide funding for working training, relocation, severance and other benefits. This is heartless and very mean-spirited,'' DiDonato said of Johnson's bill.
Government has a responsibility to step up to the plate.
Johnson countered by saying that collective bargaining provisions between utilities and unions will stop effort to provide a worker safety net. Taft was involved in a morning meeting in which utility officials made their case. Taft said earlier yesterday.