A class action lawsuit has been launched against BC Hydro re the unethical nature of their smart meter program. BC Energy Minister Bill Bennett has offered a smart meter opt-out to a limited number of people, for a limited time, for initial and ongoing charges as yet unspecified.
The smart meter Class Action asserts that for BC Hydro to install a wireless transmitter on every home in the province without the home owners' informed consent is not lawful. Issues of cost, privacy, health and security are involved. As well, it violates our civil, democratic and human rights.
Anyone can participate in the class action, whether they currently have a smart meter or an analogue. This includes those of us who never had a chance to refuse the smart meter and now wish it removed, those who have moved since a meter was installed, those of us in apartments, townhouses etc. with our own Hydro account, and business owners whose requests were denied.
Everyone with an analogue meter received a letter from BC Hydro in January saying they have no choice but to accept a smart meter. BC Hydro has publicly announced its intention to install a smart meter on everyone's home eventually.
There is an initial cost of $100.00 to join the class action. This will pay for itself in short order if/when the no-fee opt-out is granted. If you register for the class action, you will receive an official acknowledgment that your registration has been received. All payments will go 100% to the legal action. An additional donation would be most welcome to help with our awareness campaign.
Time is of the essence. If the initial response is slow, the court will take that into account, as will Hydro's lawyers. We need to show the court in short order the fact that we are a major group calling to be recognized. This can only succeed with true participation. Please communicate this to friends and colleagues, and ask them to do the same.
Registration Form and related links: http://citizensforsafetechnology.org/Class-Action-Member-REGISTRATION-FORM-Updated-July-26,85,3107
Linda Ewart
Citizens for Safe Technology Society