SB21-170 Summary

• Requires cooperative electric associations to prepare and file wildland fire protection plans with the Public Utilities Commission by June 1, 2022, and every three years thereafter, with annual compliance reports required.

• Authorizes associations to remove or partially remove vegetation outside powerline easements following major weather events, emergencies, or when designated as "hazard vegetation" with at least 14 days' notice to landowners.

• Allows landowners to request removal of vegetation that dies from trimming by the association within three months at the association's expense, with completion required within 90 days or payment option available.

• Protects associations from liability for personal injury, property damage, or fire suppression costs if the association filed a protection plan and completed activities, or if landowner negligence, access denial, or prevention of maintenance occurred.

• Limits damages to actual economic damages only if an association is found liable for wildland fire, prohibiting recovery of noneconomic, punitive, or exemplary damages.