A California City Council Considers Banning Engagement with Elon Musk Companies
In a bold move, the City Council of Davis, California, is set to discuss a resolution that would prohibit any engagement with companies owned or controlled by Elon Musk, such as Tesla and SpaceX.
The proposed resolution, titled “Resolution Ending Engagement With Elon Musk-Controlled Companies and To Encourage CalPERS To Divest Stock In These Companies,” aims to divest from Musk’s companies due to alleged violations of labor laws, environmental regulations, workplace safety standards, and regulatory noncompliance.
The resolution also raises concerns about Musk’s influence on political ideologies and activities that could threaten democratic norms and institutions, including campaign finance activities that raise ethical and legal concerns.
If passed, the resolution would prevent the City of Davis from entering into new contracts or purchasing agreements with any Elon Musk-controlled companies. Additionally, the city would refrain from utilizing Tesla’s Robotaxi services.
Despite claims of no immediate budgetary impact, the decision could potentially affect residents, particularly in relation to Tesla’s Supercharger Network, which is open to all electric vehicle manufacturers and is known for its reliability and widespread availability.
Furthermore, the resolution includes a request for CalPERS, the California Public Employees Retirement System, to divest from stock in any Musk company. While CalPERS previously voted against Musk’s compensation package, it continues to profit from Tesla’s performance on Wall Street.
The City Council meeting to discuss the resolution is scheduled for this evening, where the potential ban on engagement with Elon Musk companies will be deliberated.
It is worth noting that Musk’s political involvement, particularly during the recent Presidential Election, has garnered mixed reactions. Similar actions have been considered by other cities, such as Baltimore, which opted to cancel a contract with Tesla for a fleet of electric vehicles for city employees.
For more information, you can read the original report from Davis Vanguard.