As part of the American Red Cross Disaster Relief cadre after the San Bruno gas explosion, I saw first hand the destruction to property and more so to the lives of those who lived in the area. I spoke with the families whose loved ones still hadn't been found; with those who had fled with the inferno at "their heels" melting the back of their car or worse yet, burning parts of their body. We advocated for the clients with PG&E, with insurance companies over air quality within their homes when they returned. This should never have happened. Rita, Union City

As a conservative Republican I want the least amount of government interference in my life. But I think the San Bruno explosion and fire highlights the need for some regulation. So, I applaud that legislation. Companies are profit driven in a free society and one of the easiest cuts to make is in maintenance and inspection, safety and otherwise. Kevin, Stockton


While I appreciate your work on pipeline safety, I would also like to see you and the congress move forward in allowing the pipeline from Canada. This would help reduce our dependence on Middle east and Venezuelan oil. It would also create hundreds of jobs in this faltering economy. Creighton, Livermore


Good for you on the new Pipeline Safety bill!!!! Increased safety and peace of mind for your constituents; more needed jobs for the building trades! Diane, Pleasanton