Congressman Gallagher and Assemblyman Patterson announce the governor has signed a bill to help wildfire victims
Assemblyman Joe Patterson and Congressman James Gallagher announce that Assembly Bill 2700, their legislation to help victims of utility caused wildfires, has been signed into law today by the governor. AB 2700 provides a path for fire victims, like those of the Camp Fire in the town of Paradise, to be fully and fairly compensated for the devastating loss they’ve endured.
AB 2700 requires the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) to determine the amount fire victims are owed and recommend compensation methods that do not raise utility rates.
Representative James Gallagher.“It was my great honor to take this bill on as one of my last actions in the legislature. Far too many wildfire victims are still waiting for the fair compensation they deserve,” said Gallagher. “AB 2700 provides a pathway for accountability and real justice for fire survivors.”
AB 2700 was introduced by Gallagher while in the State Assembly. Patterson became the author of the bill upon Gallagher’s election to Congress.
Assemblyman Joe Patterson.“It is my honor to carry the mantle through the finish line to ensure Congressman Gallagher’s constituents – as well as others – have an opportunity to be compensated for their devastating losses,” said Patterson. “Wildfire victims, who have waited years to be paid their fair share, have a pathway to be fully compensated. No amount of money can undo what they have suffered, but my hope is that this bill provides a tangible step for them to rebuild and move forward.”
Thousands of wildfire survivors, united under the Utility Wildfire Survivor Coalition, were instrumental in passing AB 2700. These survivors championed the bill by calling legislative offices, meeting with lawmakers and staff, and testifying at committee hearings.
“Earlier this year, the Utility Wildfire Survivor Coalition broadly reached out to members of the State Legislature to find someone willing to champion this legislation,” said Will Abrams, Organizing Advocate of the Utility Wildfire Survivor Coalition. “James Gallagher and Joe Patterson had the courage and conviction to lead this effort and champion the passage of AB 2700. Their leadership and our nonpartisan advocacy as the sponsors of this bill led to the bipartisan and unanimous support that marked every vote in the Legislature. Wildfire survivors across the state are grateful.”
