Utilities Pose as Wildfire Survivors While Lobbying Newsom to Cut Their Liability

A campaign called Wildfire Victims First—funded by SCE, PG&E and SDG&E and fronting as a public voice for wildfire survivors—is lobbying Sacramento for reforms that could reduce what utilities pay when their equipment causes catastrophic fires. Proposals include limiting victim compensation, capping attorneys’ fees, and shifting more losses to property insurers. Fire-survivor and consumer groups warn the changes could move costs from utilities onto survivors, policyholders, taxpayers and ratepayers. Critics also argue the proposals would weaken utility accountability and reduce incentives to prevent future fires. California utilities already benefit from a state wildfire fund that can cover substantial losses under certain conditions. Newsom’s office says the current system is unsustainable but has not disclosed which specific proposals the governor supports. The survivor-led Dear Newsom campaign is urging Gov. Newsom to reject closed-door legislation that reduces utility liability or shifts recovery costs to survivors, policyholders and customers, and to support full compensation, public debate and utility accountability.
Action: Add your name to the Dear Newsom campaign letter.
LA Times