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Growing Complaints Over SmartMeters

SAN FRANCISCO (KCBS) Opponents of the PG&E SmartMeter program picketed outside the offices of the state Public Utilities Commission in San Francisco Tuesday.

Banners and signs were seen with messages including "Stop PG&E SmartMeter" and "SmartMeter Dumb Idea."

"Their biggest message is, they have no idea what the impact on human health will be," said protester Judi Shils.

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She said she's concerned that the devices could cause harm through their high-tech capabilities.

"Italy and Germany have smart grids in their countries through fiber optics," said Shils. "So it's very doable without RF."

But PG&E spokesman Paul Moreno said the technology is safe.

"The World Health Organization has examined the issue of Radio Frequency and health concerns and has determined there are no adverse effects," Moreno said.

A growing number of municipalities, including Cotati, Santa Cruz and Fairfax are following San Francisco's lead to impose moratoriums on SmartMeters, which have also been blamed for inaccurate readings resulting in higher utility bills.

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