Julie Cart
CalMatters-
Utility companies are carrying out numerous tasks to prevent wildfires, from ramping up line inspections to replacing antiquated equipment. But critics say that PG&E and other electric providers should be focusing less on the cheap stuff, like cutting trees, and more on upgrading its thousands of miles of old lines and aging equipment.
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The North Coast’s rainforests are hotter, drier and less foggy. That means more dangerous fires that can scar iconic redwoods.
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The record-breaking fire season could have lasting effects on the economy of California’s mountain communities.
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Assembly leadership says too much opposition, too little time to address disputes over $3 billion in fees on utility customers for fire and climate change projects.
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California’s early outbreak of major fires means its neighbors can’t send much aid because they’re ablaze, too.
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Facing another devastating wildfire season, state lawmakers are proposing last-minute legislation to tap into a utility-bill fee to free up $500 million for training firefighters and other immediate steps.