CA SB529

Requires the Public Utilities Commission to update General Order 131-D by January 1, 2024, to allow electrical corporations to use the permit-to-construct process or claim exemptions for extensions, expansions, upgrades, or modifications to existing electrical transmission facilities and substations.

Exempts extensions, expansions, upgrades, or other modifications to existing electrical transmission facilities from requiring a certificate of public convenience and necessity under Public Utilities Code Section 1001.

Applies to electrical transmission facilities within existing easements, rights of way, or franchise agreements regardless of voltage level, including those above 200 kilovolts.

Specifies that no state reimbursement to local agencies or school districts is required because any costs result from changes to crime definitions and penalties under existing law.