The proposed bill introduces the "Wildfire Standard of Care Act" by adding a new chapter to Title 61 of the Idaho Code. This legislation aims to establish a framework for electric corporations to develop and implement wildfire mitigation plans, which must be approved by the Idaho Public Utilities Commission. The plans are intended to ensure the safe and reliable generation, transmission, and distribution of electric power while addressing wildfire risks. Key components of the plans include identifying high-risk areas, implementing preventative actions, conducting community outreach, and coordinating with various agencies on wildfire preparedness. The bill mandates annual updates and compliance reports from electric corporations regarding their wildfire mitigation efforts.
Additionally, the bill provides a rebuttable presumption of non-negligence for electric corporations in civil actions related to wildfire damages if they have reasonably implemented a commission-approved wildfire mitigation plan. It also outlines the process for electric corporations to access private or public lands for necessary vegetation management and fire mitigation work if access is denied. The legislation establishes exclusive civil remedies for damages related to wildfire mitigation plans, ensuring that the liability framework is clearly defined. An emergency clause is included, making the act effective on July 1, 2025.