California Lawmakers File Wildfire Plan, Without Newsom Asks

California lawmakers are set to vote on Tuesday on a bill intended to assist wildfire survivors, following their refusal to approve a comprehensive plan proposed by Governor Gavin Newsom. The governor had aimed to limit the financial responsibility of electrical companies for fires ignited by their equipment, a proposal which fell short of the necessary support in the final days of the legislative session.

The bill, a compromise between Newsom and lawmakers, seeks to improve some aspects for survivors, such as expedited payments, but does not address the larger issue of who should bear the cost of these wildfires. Newsom acknowledged the bill's progress but stated it was a missed opportunity to fully address the contentious issue of wildfire funding.

His failure to secure his full plan's passage marked a rare defeat for the governor, known for often garnering legislative support for his policies. The bill's adoption comes as he completes his final legislative session before stepping down in January. Fire survivors had strongly criticized the proposed plan, with some staging protests outside the governor's residence in Sacramento, arguing that it would prioritize the interests of utilities over those of victims.

Insurance companies also voiced concerns, suggesting that the plan would necessitate rate hikes for policyholders. Joy Chen, executive director of Every Fire Survivor's Network, a group representing survivors of the 2025 Los Angeles-area fires, stated that the compromise was a victory for them, as representatives listened to their demands for action.