CA AB3246

Requires the Public Utilities Commission to update General Order 131-D by January 1, 2026, to exempt advanced reconductoring projects on existing electrical transmission facilities (50 kilovolt or above) from the standard permit-to-construct requirement.

Allows electrical corporations to seek commission approval for advanced reconductoring through the informal Tier 2 Advice Letter process instead of formal permitting procedures.

Requires the commission to update its Tier 2 Advice Letter process in General Order 96-B by January 1, 2026, to authorize filings for advanced reconductoring projects.

Defines "advanced conductor" as overhead electricity conductor with at least 10 percent lower electrical resistance than existing similar-diameter conductors, and "advanced reconductoring" as replacing existing transmission or distribution lines with advanced conductors.

Specifies no state reimbursement is required to local agencies or school districts because any costs result from changes to criminal penalties under the Public Utilities Act.