The Price is Light: Socializing the Cost of Wildfires in California

Abstract The effects of climate change have caused catastrophic wildfires in California to become perennial occurrences, claiming numerous lives and contributing to billions of dollars in property damages. As a result, California’s existing capacity to absorb an ever-growing financial burden is under immense strain. This article proposes mitigating and spreading these costs across the government, private utility companies, and residents alike. To effectuate this goal, this article recommends three key reforms: re-interpreting tort liability law for private utility companies, establishing a state-backed reinsurance program to assist victims of wildfire damage, and re-thinking the continuing expansion of human development in fire-prone regions.