The bill aims to enhance the safety and reliability of electric power transmission and distribution in Washington State by addressing wildfire risks. It establishes a framework for electric companies to develop and submit wildfire mitigation plans to the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission (WUTC). These plans must be filed as soon as practicable after the bill's effective date and updated at least every three years. The WUTC is required to approve or reject these plans within 60 days, ensuring they are based on reasonable practices and meet established standards. The commission may also adopt rules regarding various aspects of wildfire mitigation, including vegetation management and service restoration.

Additionally, the bill amends existing regulations concerning the fees that public service companies must pay to the commission, adjusting the fee structure for large combination utilities. It introduces a new fee specifically for electrical companies related to the implementation of wildfire mitigation plans. The bill also repeals a previous section of law concerning wildfire mitigation plan reviews and includes a provision to ensure that if any part of the act is found invalid, the remaining provisions will still be effective.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 80.24.010, 80.28.440