Jane Kim’s win revives California public fire insurance plan

California’s next insurance commissioner, Jane Kim, is bringing a public fire insurance proposal into an already strained market. Kim defeated state Sen. Ben Allen after arguing that California should offer at least part of the protection itself. Allen favored extending the framework developed by outgoing Commissioner Ricardo Lara. Kim’s victory is expected to move the disagreement back to the Legislature.

The pressure on property owners remains severe. Home and fire policy charges exceeded $19 billion in 2025, while related insurer losses surpassed $31 billion. The Los Angeles-area fires 22 months ago were a major contributor. After repeated wildfire claims, carriers raised prices, narrowed eligibility or stopped serving California. Many owners were left searching for policies their lenders would accept. Applications also surged at the FAIR Plan, where protection is limited and expensive.

California already operates workers’ compensation coverage and offers earthquake insurance. Under Kim’s concept, a state program could supply basic wildfire protection, funded through taxes or required charges linked to property value and supported by reinsurance. The proposal now faces questions about design, expense and how losses would be divided among residents, insurers and utilities. CalMatters columnist Dan Walters argues that an independent review could test whether the model is workable.