CA SB819

Prohibit electrical corporations from recovering fines or penalties through commission-approved rates, mirroring existing prohibitions for gas corporations.

Prohibit electrical and gas corporations from recovering costs or expenses from damages caused by their plants if the commission determines the corporation or its agent failed to reasonably construct, maintain, manage, control, or operate the plant and this negligence increased the risk of damage.

Authorize the Public Utilities Commission to approve recovery of costs or expenses in full or in part, with only just and reasonable amounts recoverable, which may comprise only a portion of the requested costs.

Clarify that the commission's determination of plant-caused damages is inadmissible as evidence in court actions against the corporation.

Affirm the Legislature's intent that the bill does not limit the commission's authority to require utilities to demonstrate all costs were reasonably and prudently incurred.