“Kansas is no stranger to the risks and impacts of wildfires,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “The changes included in this bill will help better prepare utility companies to identify and mitigate wildfire risks. By taking reasonable measures, we can better protect Kansans and provide a path to recover from the financial impacts of wildfires.”

House Bill 2107 establishes a strong but fair legal structure to allow Kansans to pursue compensation for damages from a wildfire or fire event determined to be caused by a utility provider. Claims under the bill must be brought forth within two years of the date of damage.

“House Bill 2107 will ensure that utilities will be able to identify cost-effective strategies for wildfire preparedness and implement solutions that protect Kansas communities while maintaining affordable energy for consumers,” said Representative for District 94 Leo Delperdang. “Like any other business, utility companies must be able to operate with a strong but fair legal climate that provides recourse for those damaged but also protects against excessive verdicts that could negatively impact the financial health of an industry crucial to Kansas residents, businesses, and industry. House Bill 2107 effectively balances those interests.”

In an effort to better prepare the state and Kansas communities for wildfires, the bill also requires the Kansas Corporation Commission to convene a workshop on wildfire risks, utility readiness to mitigate wildfires, risk mitigation strategies, and cost recovery for the impacts caused by wildfires.

“House Bill 2107 is a smart, commonsense bill that better prepares our state for wildfires, before and after they may happen,” said Representative for District 89 KC Ohaebosim. “I am pleased to support practical legislation that works in the best interest of Kansas and thank Governor Kelly for signing this bill.”

In addition to House Bill 2107, Governor Kelly also signed the following bipartisan bills:

House Bill 2120: Authorizes the State Board of Regents to sell and convey certain real property on behalf of Kansas State University and Kansas State University Veterinary Medical Center.

House Bill 2109: Exempts public utilities from civil liability relating to the attachment, access, operation, maintenance, or removal of law enforcement equipment on any structures owned by the utility.

House Bill 2052: Streamlines the process for an individual with a provisional concealed carry license to request a standard license and addresses requirements that specifically identify off duty law enforcement officers that are conceal carrying.

House Bill 2040: Extends the time in which the state corporation commission shall make a final order on a transmission line siting application, allowing time for additional landowner and stakeholder input.

House Bill 2037: Updates the membership of the council on travel and tourism and modernizes grant requirements to allow the council to award funding to the most feasible projects in the application process.