View this article online: https://www.claimsjournal.com/news/west/2010/09/14/113208.htm

PG&E Provides Victim Relief Fund, Following Gas Explosion

Following a gas line explosion in San Bruno, Calif., that damaged more than 120 homes, destroyed 15 acres and left seven dead, Pacific Gas and Electric Co. (PG&E) announced the creation of the “Rebuild San Bruno Fund,” which will make available up to $100 million for the residents and city of San Bruno to assist with recovery.

The fire that resulted from the initial explosion burned 15 acres and destroyed more than a dozen houses, and left more than 50 people injured.

“We know that no amount of money can ever make up for what’s been lost,” said PG&E Corp. Chairman, CEO and President Peter Darbee. “This program is just one piece of our promise that PG&E will live up to its commitment to help rebuild this community and help the people of San Bruno rebuild their lives.”

The company said victims who accept monies from the fund will not be barred from later filing a lawsuit against PG&E.

To administer the funds, PG&E will partner with government officials, community leaders and organizations, including the American Red Cross and the United Way of the Bay Area. Funds will be used to provide both immediate and long-term support to San Bruno residents and the city for three primary purposes:

• Ensuring that residents are reimbursed for costs or losses that may not be covered by their insurance.
• Providing additional direct immediate financial assistance, in the form of cash disbursements, to residents in the affected area.
• Reimbursing the city of San Bruno for costs it incurs to respond to this incident and to rebuild or repair public infrastructure and facilities.

PG&E provided San Bruno officials with an initial check for $3 million to help compensate the city for its estimated expenses incurred to date. The company is also taking steps to provide assistance to affected residents. For residents in the affected area, PG&E will provide disbursements of $15,000, $25,000, or $50,000 per household depending on the extent of damage incurred.

Residents are not being asked to waive any potential claims in order to receive these funds. Also, the funds are being provided in addition to the company’s ongoing provision of funds to ensure affected residents continue to have access to temporary housing and other basic necessities.