Newsom’s wildfire-liability plan sparks insurer-utility clash
California Gov. Newsom is pressing a last-minute package to curb wildfire costs by limiting utilities’ liability and speeding payouts from a state wildfire fund, a move insurers call a potential bailout and wildfire survivors fear could shortchange damages. The proposal would cap some damages, trim attorneys’ fees, curb subrogation, and require shareholders to help reduce rates, while lawmakers debate the details and potential unintended consequences amid a backdrop of past wildfires and ongoing utility-financing concerns.