The Latest: Governor Reopens Talks On Utility Liability

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) – Gov. Gavin Newsom is reopening the conversation on California’s strict law that makes utilities pay for wildfire damage caused by their equipment, regardless of whether they’re found at fault. It’s a controversial proposal that has failed to gain traction in the past. Newsom broached the idea Friday as he released a report on wildfires from a “strike team” of experts. He challenged lawmakers to put wildfire bills on his desk within 90 days. Newsom and lawmakers are looking for a way to keep the utilities financially stable without leaving wildfire victims and ratepayers on the hook for billions of dollars in damages. But any plan would also have to avoid being seen as a bailout for Pacific Gas & Electric Corp., which has often been slow to address problems and recently filed for bankruptcy.

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