Southern California Edison announced plans to launch a Wildfire Recovery Compensation Program this fall to compensate victims of the Eaton Fire.. The fire, which killed 19 people and destroyed over 9,400 structures in Altadena, is believed to have been ignited by Edison’s transmission lines, though the cause is still under investigation. Edison aims to avoid lengthy litigation by offering direct payments to those who lost homes, businesses, or rental properties, as well as those who suffered injuries or fatalities.
Edison has enlisted the help of consultants Kenneth R. Feinberg and Camille S. Biros, known for their work on the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund, to design the program. According to the Los Angeles Times, the program is intended to expedite the compensation process, allowing victims to focus on recovery rather than litigation. However, some attorneys, like Richard Bridgford, have expressed skepticism, suggesting that victims might receive less compensation without legal representation.
The program, which is voluntary and free of application fees, is expected to run through 2026. NBC Los Angeles reports that Edison spokesperson David Eisenhauer emphasized the program’s goal to provide quicker and more streamlined compensation. If Edison is found responsible, the state’s $21-billion wildfire fund is expected to cover most of the payments.
Further details on eligibility and required documentation for compensation will be released in the coming weeks. Meanwhile, state officials are discussing measures to extend the wildfire fund’s lifespan, as concerns grow about its adequacy to cover the Eaton Fire claims.
Recent Comments