Electrical corporations: wildfire mitigation plans.
The bill obligates electrical corporations to share information about customers who may lose electrical service during deenergization events. This is critical for local entities responsible for public safety, as it allows for better planning and response in case of service interruptions. If enacted, it will enhance the communication processes between electrical corporations and local agencies, ensuring that vulnerable populations, particularly those requiring medical assistance, are prioritized during preventive deenergization activities.
Assembly Bill 2179, introduced by Assembly Member Levine, aims to amend the Public Utilities Code concerning wildfire mitigation plans established by electrical corporations. The bill incorporates provisions that govern the protocols for deenergizing portions of the electrical grid to mitigate wildfire risks. Under existing law, electric utilities must prepare wildfire mitigation plans annually, and this bill expands those requirements by mandating specific rules related to providing information about customers affected by potential power shutoffs, especially those deemed eligible for medical baseline rates.
There is the potential for contention regarding privacy concerns as this bill requires local governments to handle sensitive customer information while complying with strict federal and state privacy laws. The provision indicates that local entities receiving such information must adhere to regulations like the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), which could raise questions about data handling and user consent. Moreover, the bill states that no reimbursement is required for local agencies for the additional costs incurred by the new requirements, which may further fuel debate on local government funding and mandates.