Bill > S1124

This bill establishes a comprehensive Wildfire Standard of Care Act for electric corporations in Idaho, requiring them to develop and implement detailed wildfire mitigation plans that are reviewed and approved by the Idaho Public Utilities Commission. The legislation mandates that electric utilities create plans that balance wildfire risk mitigation costs with risk reduction, identifying high-risk infrastructure areas, describing preventative actions, outlining community outreach efforts, coordinating with government agencies, considering line design improvements, monitoring weather data, and establishing inspection and de-energization protocols. Critically, the bill provides liability protections for electric corporations that substantially comply with their approved wildfire mitigation plans, limiting their legal exposure in civil actions related to wildfires. If an electric corporation substantially follows its plan and does not engage in intentional misconduct, it cannot be found liable for damages resulting from unplanned fires. The bill also allows for minor deviations from the plan and establishes specific damage recovery limits if an electric corporation fails to substantially comply with its plan. The act is designed to ensure safe, efficient, and affordable electric power transmission while proactively addressing wildfire risks, with plans to be reviewed and updated at least every three years. The legislation will take effect on July 1, 2025, and applies to both public utilities and other electric corporations like cooperative associations.

Government Affairs, Justice

State Affairs Committee (S)

https://legislature.idaho.gov/sessioninfo/2025/legislation/S1124/