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AB 336

Criminal penalties: wildfires.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Phillip Chen and 10 co-sponsors

California bill proposes criminal penalties for actions causing wildfires; failed committee passage in 2025 after initial referral to Public Safety Committee.

From committee: Without further action pursuant to Joint Rule 62(a).
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Bill Summary · AB 336

Legislative bill overview

AB 336 proposes to establish or enhance criminal penalties for individuals whose actions cause or contribute to wildfires in California. The bill was introduced by a bipartisan group of legislators and referred to the Public Safety Committee in February 2025. However, the bill failed to advance, with the committee taking no further action in April 2025.

Why is this important

California experiences increasingly severe wildfires that destroy homes, infrastructure, and natural resources while causing significant loss of life and economic damage. Criminal penalty provisions could potentially deter negligent or reckless behavior that ignites fires, though effectiveness depends on specific offense definitions and enforcement capacity.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope and specificity: Unclear whether the bill targets negligence, recklessness, or intentional conduct; overly broad definitions could criminalize accidents or traditional land management practices
  • Enforcement challenges: Determining causation in complex wildfire scenarios is scientifically and legally difficult; resources required for investigation and prosecution may strain criminal justice systems
  • Disproportionate impact: Penalties could affect rural property owners, agricultural operators, and prescribed burn practitioners differently than urban residents, raising equity concerns

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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