Medford, Ore. – Representative Pam Marsh introduced two new bills on Tuesday aimed at addressing the growing concern over utility-caused wildfires in Oregon. The proposed legislation seeks to provide financial relief to victims while imposing stricter safety standards on utility companies.
The first bill, HB3917, proposes the creation of an $800 million fund designed to compensate individuals whose properties are destroyed by wildfires caused by utility equipment. According to Marsh, the fund would serve as an immediate source of financial relief for affected property owners, allowing them to recover faster than through the traditional legal process.
“The intention of the fund is to provide an immediate source of capital that could be used to help individuals who had a loss in the fire,” Marsh explained. The fund would be managed by the Public Utilities Commission (PUC), which would oversee the disbursement of claims.
However, the bill includes a key stipulation: those who choose to claim funds from the new wildfire relief fund would waive their right to pursue further legal action against the utility company responsible for the fire. Marsh emphasized that the goal was not to grant immunity to the utilities but to offer an alternative path for victims who might prefer quicker compensation.
“For some people in some settings, it would be a better choice to try to be made whole sooner,” Marsh said. “That is what this fund is about—you can choose to take path A.”
In addition to HB3917, Marsh also introduced HB3666, which would require utility companies to meet stringent wildfire safety standards. Under this bill, utilities would need to apply for a wildfire safety certification from the PUC, ensuring that they are taking appropriate measures to prevent wildfires. The PUC would also be authorized to audit utility companies’ safety practices and performance to ensure compliance with the new standards.
“If they meet the standard, the PUC will award them a wildfire safety certificate,” said Marsh, adding that the legislation would establish a higher bar for fire safety and prevention.
The introduction of these bills comes as Oregon continues to experience devastating wildfires, many of which have been linked to faulty utility equipment. The proposed legislation seeks to hold utilities more accountable for their role in these disasters while providing a safety net for those who suffer property loss.
While HB3917 would streamline the claims process for wildfire victims, it also leaves room for victims to pursue civil action against utilities if they choose not to use the fund. By creating an option for faster relief, the bill aims to address the urgent needs of people whose homes and businesses are destroyed by fires caused by utilities.
Both bills are now set to undergo review and debate in the Oregon Legislature, with supporters hoping they will be a step toward a more proactive approach to wildfire prevention and compensation.
As the wildfire season continues to threaten Oregon residents, these proposed changes could offer new avenues for relief and accountability in the state’s ongoing battle with fire risk.