California Assembly Nixes Last-Minute Wildfire Reform Plan

The California Assembly rejected Senate Bill 492, a late-session wildfire reform package backed by Gov. Newsom that would speed compensation for wildfire victims, curb some legal practices, and require a state wildfire‑preparedness plan, but would not limit insurers’ ability to recoup costs from utilities. Critics argued the proposal was incomplete and too narrow; supporters said it laid groundwork for broader changes. With the bill failing to advance before adjournment, lawmakers left open the possibility of a special session to revisit the issue.