Hawaii Governor Josh Green announced Friday that a $4 billion settlement has been reached to resolve thousands of lawsuits related to the devastating wildfires on Maui nearly a year ago. The settlement involves the state of Hawaii, Maui County, and Hawaiian Electric utility, which will pay compensation to about 2,200 victims affected by the deadly fires.

"This Global Settlement of over $4 billion will help our people heal," Governor Green stated. He noted the speed of the settlement process, emphasizing that settling such a matter within a year is unprecedented and will help residents rebuild their lives more quickly.

The settlement, reached after four months of mediation, is pending judicial approval and the resolution of claims by insurance companies that have covered property losses and damages. 

The wildfires, which began on August 8 of last year, were the deadliest in the United States in over a century. The blaze consumed around 2,000 acres and devastated the historic town of Lahaina, a former royal seat and tourist hub. The rapid spread of the flames, exacerbated by strong winds, left many residents caught off guard and fleeing for their lives.

Governor Green noted that the total recovery cost, including insurance claims and various levels of government support, is expected to approach $12 billion.

Maui County had previously sued Hawaiian Electric, alleging that the fire could have been prevented if power lines had been deactivated in response to hurricane-related wind warnings. The lawsuit highlighted concerns about downed power lines igniting vegetation before the fire, a situation that raised critical scrutiny of the power company's actions.

According to reports, Hawaiian Electric will contribute the largest share of the settlement, approximately $2 billion.