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Senate approves wildfire mitigation standard for utilities amid contention over damages and liability caps
Summary
Senate Bill 11‑83, a wildfire mitigation standard of care applying to electric utilities, passed after lengthy debate over liability limits, the scope of damages and notice to local fire agencies. Supporters said the measure balances grid reliability and fire risk; critics argued the bill restricts recovery for medical and wrongful‑death claims.
The Idaho Senate approved Senate Bill 11‑83 on March 24, a measure that establishes a wildfire mitigation standard of care for electric utilities and ties certain liability outcomes to compliance with a Public Utilities Commission‑approved mitigation plan.
Sponsor Sen. Lori Woodward (Senator Lori Woodward) said the bill seeks to preserve safe, affordable electricity while setting a predictable framework for mitigation plans, PUC review, and post‑fire liability. Supporters cited a governor's wildfire report and an extensive stakeholder process involving utilities, counties, timber interests and insurers.
Opposition…
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