Lawmakers Weigh In on Wildfire Relief

South Dakota lawmakers are considering a bill that could limit electricity providers’ liability for wildfires. It’s a move that’s got many scratching their heads, wondering why companies shouldn’t be on the hook for damages if their equipment sparks a blaze.

The Bill’s Provisions

The proposed legislation, which is now headed to the state Senate, won’t make providers completely immune to lawsuits. But it will limit their financial exposure if their equipment is found to have caused a wildfire. It’s a distinction that doesn’t sit well with some folks, who argue that it’s a free pass for companies to be reckless with their maintenance.

Proponents of the bill claim it’s necessary to prevent electricity providers from going bankrupt if they’re hit with massive payouts for wildfire damages. They say it’s a matter of keeping the lights on, literally. But critics counter that it’s just a handout to companies that should be held accountable for their actions.