"Californians Stunned by Soaring PG&E Bills After Rate Hike"

Californians are shocked by soaring electric and gas bills following a rate hike by Pacific Gas and Electric Co. (PG&E), with some residents reporting significant increases in their monthly bills. The utility company's price hike, approved by the California Public Utilities Commission, aims to fund improvements to power lines and gas pipeline safety after years of devastating wildfires. PG&E is offering assistance programs to help struggling customers, but some lawmakers are seeking to repeal the controversial bill that allows rates to be based on income.