The bill aims to enhance the safety and reliability of electric power transmission and distribution in Washington State by establishing a framework for electric utilities to develop and implement wildfire mitigation plans. It mandates that each electrical company file a wildfire mitigation plan with the commission shortly after the bill's effective date, with updates required at least every three years. The commission is tasked with reviewing these plans, holding public workshops, and ensuring that the plans balance mitigation costs with the reduction of wildfire risks. Additionally, the commission is required to adopt rules that include procedures for vegetation management and public safety measures.

The bill also amends existing regulations regarding the fees that public service companies must pay to the commission, adjusting the fee structure for large combination utilities. It introduces new provisions that allow the commission to collect additional fees from electrical companies specifically for the purposes of implementing the wildfire mitigation plans. Furthermore, it repeals an existing section related to wildfire mitigation plan review and includes a severability clause to ensure that if any part of the act is found invalid, the remainder remains effective.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 80.24.010, 80.28.440
Substitute Bill: 80.24.010, 80.28.440
Engrossed Substitute: 80.24.010, 80.28.440
Bill as Passed Legislature: 80.24.010, 80.28.440
Session Law: 80.24.010, 80.28.440