In a case before the California Supreme Court, PG&E Corp faces potential damages exceeding $2.5 billion for alleged negligent power shutoffs. Hailing from St. Helena, California, Anthony Gantner brought forth the negligence class action as an adversary proceeding during PG&E’s bankruptcy.
This case presents the California Supreme Court with significant questions regarding the appropriateness and function of tort liability in addressing such matters. In a recent proceeding, the court engaged with two questions specifically certified by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit.
Justice Goodwin Liu voiced concerns over the tactics employed in this case. His skepticism over whether litigation is the appropriate mechanism to address PG&E’s power shutoffs underscores the complexity of the issue. The affirmation or negation of tort liability as the right tool may have far-reaching implications for utilities and consumers alike.
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