HB 3984
Provides that an electric company that is found to be liable for damages in a civil action arising out of allegations that the conduct of the electric company caused or substantially contributed to a wildfire shall also be liable for any federal income tax liability that a plaintiff or class member owes or pays on amounts the plaintiff or class member receives in relation to the civil action.
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Sign in to take action- Introduced
- Passed House
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill requires the Oregon Public Utility Commission (PUC) to study wildfires and submit a report with recommendations to the legislature by September 15, 2026. The study will examine wildfire risk and recovery, and the PUC must assess electric companies’ wildfire safety plans. Additionally, the bill establishes that if an electric company is found liable for damages related to a wildfire, they are also liable for any federal income tax liability owed or paid by plaintiffs or class members related to the civil action.
Key provisions
- The Public Utility Commission (PUC) must conduct a study on wildfires.
- The PUC must submit a report with recommendations to the legislature by September 15, 2026.
- Electric companies must apply for a wildfire safety certification.
- A wildfire safety certification establishes that an electric company has implemented wildfire policies and practices.
- The bill sunsets on January 2, 2027.
- If an electric company is found liable for wildfire damages, they are also liable for related federal income tax liabilities.
Who is affected
- Electric companies
- Plaintiffs in wildfire-related lawsuits
- Class members in wildfire-related lawsuits
- The Oregon Public Utility Commission (PUC)
- The Oregon Legislative Assembly
Notable changes
- Establishes liability for electric companies beyond damages for wildfire-related incidents, including federal income tax liabilities.
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