The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) announced on Nov. 1 an economic relief program of approximately $300 million to reduce utility debt for over 250,000 qualifying low-income customers who are financially harmed by the COVID-19 pandemic. As the “most comprehensive” utility debt assistance initiative in the city’s history, the program aims to assist low-income customers falling behind on their utility bills before the pandemic. The backbone of this program is the $285 million pandemic relief funds from the State of California. LADWP will dedicate $15 million to the effort, complementing state and federal funds. “No one who is struggling to make ends meet should face further hardship, and this new program will deliver essential financial relief to help hard-working Angelenos get back on their feet,” said Mayor Eric Garcetti. Martin L Adams, LADWP general manager and chief engineer, echoed Garcetti’s point, adding the relief could aid thousands …