New consent decree for AT&T and CSPA!

AT&T and the California Sportfishing Protection Alliance have entered into a new, final consent decree whereas Pacific Bell (AT&T) will fulfill its original commitment to remove the lead cables from Lake Tahoe! Both sides have our immense gratitude and support for this landmark agreement for the long term hashtag#sustainability of the lake

Please find a link to this document below, along with summary thoughts on this action:

https://www.courtlistener.com/docket/48621200/148/ca-sportfishing-protection-alliance-v-pacific-bell-telephone-co/

These sides previously entered into a consent decree fall 2021 that agreed to perform this critical project to “avoid the distraction and expense of protracted litigation”. However, following a series of articles from The Wall Street Journal this agreement was vacated, the sides resumed litigation, and the future of the lead cables was unknown.

Our grassroots community effort emerged following this development, as regardless of the amount of lead currently leaching out we wanted these lead cables removed. Since launching, +775 individuals have signed our petition at tahoelead.com, and we engaged all 7 government agencies required to authorize.

Critically, this new consent decree outlines the depositions and studies of 9 experts that confirm: the cables do not pose a health hashtag risk to people, there is no ecological risk to animals or plants in Lake Tahoe from the cables, sampling of water by the State of California at the intake of the water system closest to the cables confirms lead was not detectable.

AT&T has agreed to remove the cables “as soon as practicable”, with a target of November 30, 2024 or in spring 2025! This sense of urgency is crucial, and inspiring.

Another key development: this commitment has been separated from agreements regarding legal fees and costs, with those to be determined by the Court. This avoids some potential impediments in the coming weeks as this action is approved.

This tremendous news has been celebrated in our hashtag#community, and we thank AT&T for taking this action today. It aligns directly with our petition asking for all government, corporate and public entities to support immediate removal. Our efforts will continue to evolve, as we remain focused on one goal: get the lead out.

Our work will not end until this lead cables are finally removed from the hashtag#water, and we remain ready to work with all stakeholders to achieve this outcome. Plenty more to come from our end.

Document source: CourtListener.com. CA Sportfishing Protection Alliance v. Pacific Bell Telephone Co. Document #148

As posted on Linkedin