Bill > SB5430

This bill addresses electric utility wildfire mitigation plans by establishing a comprehensive framework for how electrical companies must prepare for and respond to wildfire risks. The legislation requires each electrical company to file a wildfire mitigation plan with the state's utilities commission, with initial plans due soon after the bill's effective date and mandatory updates at least every three years. The commission must review these plans within 120 days, holding public workshops and meetings, and can approve, reject, or modify the plans based on whether they represent reasonable and prudent practices for balancing wildfire risk mitigation with affordable electric rates. The bill mandates that the commission develop rules covering aspects like vegetation management, public safety power shutoffs, and service restoration, and requires companies to share their plans with the department of natural resources and a utility wildland fire prevention advisory committee. Importantly, the bill includes a provision that protects the commission from liability related to an electrical company's implementation of its wildfire mitigation plan. Additionally, the bill adjusts regulatory fee structures for electrical companies to help support the development and review of these wildfire mitigation plans. The overall intent is to ensure safe and reliable electric power transmission while keeping costs manageable for consumers.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5430&Year=2025&Initiative=false