The proposed bill introduces a new chapter, Chapter 18, to Title 61 of the Idaho Code, titled the "Wildfire Standard of Care Act." This legislation aims to establish a framework for electric corporations to develop and implement wildfire mitigation plans that ensure the safe and reliable generation, transmission, and distribution of electric power while addressing wildfire risks. The bill mandates that public utility electric corporations file these plans with the Idaho Public Utilities Commission for review and approval, outlining specific measures to mitigate wildfire risks, including community outreach, vegetation management, and coordination with local and state agencies. The plans must be updated annually and include documentation of compliance and expenditures related to 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 allows electric corporations to access private or public lands for necessary vegetation management and fire mitigation work if access is denied after a formal request. The legislation declares an emergency, making it effective from July 1, 2025, and establishes that the civil remedies outlined in the bill are exclusive for damages related to the approved wildfire mitigation plans.