The groups argue that proposed "Fast Pay" programs, if poorly drafted, risk becoming instruments of delay rather than relief. Drawing on lessons from the PG&E bankruptcy, they warn that survivors should not be forced to choose between immediate financial assistance and the legal right to discovery. Litigation remains the primary tool for uncovering utility safety failures, and proponents insist that any new system must operate in parallel with, rather than replace, the court process.
In section Releases
Fire Survivors and Advocates Urge Caution on Last-Minute Liability Laws
As the legislative clock ticks down on wildfire liability reform, advocates are warning lawmakers that rushed policy could inadvertently shield utilities from accountability. Consumer Watchdog and the Every Fire Survivor's Network issued a final plea today, demanding that any new framework prioritize victim rights over corporate bailouts.
Beyond compensation, the advocates are pushing for structural changes to utility oversight. They contend that the current $9 billion annual collection for wildfire mitigation lacks sufficient auditing, pointing to past instances where utilities failed to perform promised maintenance despite charging ratepayers. The proposed recommendations include mandatory independent financial audits, strict caps on defense attorney fees to match potential limits on plaintiff counsel, and a moratorium on executive bonuses and shareholder dividends following catastrophic, utility-caused fires.
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