Environment & Climate

California lawmakers advance first-in-nation wildfire smoke damage standards

Two bills awaiting executive signature would mandate insurer compliance with statewide smoke-cleanup rules, according to Associated Press.

Updated Sep 8, 2026 · 21:47 UTC1 reports

The short version

California lawmakers passed two bills that would set nationwide first standards for wildfire smoke testing and cleanup, currently awaiting the governor's signature.[Associated Press]
The legislation requires insurance companies to follow the new rules following widespread disputes over smoke damage from the deadly January 2025 fires.[Associated Press]
The insurance industry remains technically opposed to the package, and some independent adjusters question whether the rules will prevent future litigation.[Associated Press]

Two measures awaiting the governor's signature would make California the first state to create standards for smoke testing and remediation.[Associated Press]
Assembly Bill 1795 requires insurance providers to adopt and abide by the designated smoke-damage guidelines.[Associated Press]
State Insurance Department estimates indicate that more than 13,000 out of 40,000 claims from the January 2025 fires involved smoke damage.[Associated Press]
The American Property Casualty Insurance Association remains technically opposed to the bills, according to vice president Karen Collins.[Associated Press]
Los Angeles County sued State Farm alleging unfair business practices regarding the handling of 2025 fire claims, which the insurer strongly disputed.[Associated Press]

It remains uncertain whether the governor will sign the bills into law and whether the insurance department's enforcement will prevent ongoing litigation.[Associated Press]

Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.