California Senate Bill SB247

California 2019-2020 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/11/19
• Refer: 2/21/19
• Refer: 3/14/19
• Refer: 3/20/19
• Report Pass: 4/10/19
• Refer: 4/10/19
• Report Pass: 4/25/19
• Refer: 4/29/19
• Report Pass: 5/16/19
• Engrossed: 5/21/19
• Refer: 6/10/19
• Refer: 6/12/19
• Report Pass: 7/1/19
• Refer: 7/2/19
• Report Pass: 7/10/19
• Refer: 7/11/19
• Refer: 8/12/19
• Report Pass: 8/30/19
• Enrolled: 9/11/19
• Chaptered: 10/2/19
• Passed: 10/2/19

Caption

Wildland fire prevention: vegetation management.

Impact

By requiring electrical corporations to notify the Wildfire Safety Division upon completing substantial portions of their vegetation management strategies, the bill increases accountability in fire risk mitigation efforts. This change intends to enhance oversight and ensure that vegetation management is carried out as planned, potentially leading to improved community safety. The audits serve to identify any compliance failures, thus reinforcing the requirement for these corporations to adhere to safety protocols.

Summary

Senate Bill 247, also known as the Wildland Fire Prevention: Vegetation Management Act, aims to enhance wildfire safety through stricter regulations on electrical corporations regarding vegetation management. The bill mandates that electric utilities notify the Wildfire Safety Division when they complete significant portions of their vegetation management plans. Additionally, it requires the division to conduct audits of this work, ensuring compliance with established wildfire mitigation directives.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB 247 appears to be largely positive among safety advocates and environmental organizations, which appreciate the proactive approach to mitigating wildfire risks. Supporters believe that the enhanced oversight will lead to better management practices and ultimately reduce fire hazards. However, some stakeholders within the electrical utility sector may perceive the increased regulatory burden as a hindrance, especially regarding associated costs and operational impacts.

Contention

Notable contentions regarding the bill focus on the balance between stringent regulatory measures and operational flexibility for electrical corporations. Critics express concerns that excessive oversight and rigorous auditing could lead to increased costs, which may be passed onto consumers. Additionally, the requirement for all tree trimmers to be qualified and compensated at prevailing wages raises questions about workforce availability and the potential financial implications for utility companies, particularly smaller entities.