Lots of Good News from Will

Momentum is building for AB 2700!

AB 2700 continues to advance in the Legislature.

* The bill passed through the Senate Rules Committee and has been assigned to the Senate Energy, Utilities and Communications Committee.

* After receiving a unanimous 76-0 Assembly vote, supporters are optimistic but stress that continued advocacy is needed.

Proposed amendments have been developed.

Three amendment packages were completed with Legislative Counsel:

1. Implementation paths to provide greater certainty and timeliness for victim compensation.

2. Expanded eligibility so protections and compensation mechanisms can apply to all utility wildfire survivors, not just PG&E victims.

3. Enforcement tools to ensure utilities are held accountable for providing full and timely compensation.

Leadership transition on the bill.

* With former Assemblymember Gallagher leaving Sacramento, Assemblymember Patterson is helping guide the bill forward.

* New authors have not yet been officially assigned.

* Whether the proposed amendments are adopted will ultimately be decided by the new bill author(s).

SB 254 discussions highlighted broader concerns.

* Lawmakers acknowledged that the current approach to utility-caused wildfire recovery is not sustainable.

* There was support for reforms focused on full victim compensation, affordability, reliability, and wildfire safety.

* Advocates remain concerned about recommendations they view as favoring utility, insurance, and investor interests, particularly proposals that could shift wildfire costs to taxpayers, ratepayers, or victims.

Advocacy efforts are gaining support.

* Meetings were held with nearly all Senate Energy Committee offices.

* According to Will, there is strong support for both AB 2700 and the proposed amendments.

* Future advocacy goals include:

    * Securing a unanimous Senate Energy Committee vote.

    * Building support for the amendments.

    * Engaging on related wildfire legislation.

    * Encouraging attorneys and wildfire victim organizations to participate in advocacy efforts.

Overall message: Momentum is building for AB 2700, key amendments have been drafted, legislative outreach has been positive, and advocates are now focused on securing committee approval and strengthening the bill as it advances.