Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research | BILL ANALYSIS |
Agriculture & Natural Resources Committee |
HB 2667
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent. |
Brief Description: Concerning communications during a forest fire response.
Sponsors: Representatives Chandler, Simpson, Kelley and Warnick.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 1/21/10
Staff: Leslie Ryan-Connelly (786-7166).
Background:
Regional fire defense boards develop regional fire service plans that include requirements for fire agencies to respond across jurisdictional boundaries. The regional fire service plans must be consistent with other approved emergency management plans. Regional boards consist of representatives from the counties within the region and the Department of Natural Resources.
Regional fire service plans must be approved by the State Fire Protection Policy Board (Policy Board). The Policy Board consists of nine members appointed by the Governor. The Policy Board is responsible for developing comprehensive state policy regarding fire protection services including adopting the state fire protection master plan and advising the Chief of the Washington State Patrol and the State Fire Marshal.
The Department of Natural Resources (Department) is in direct charge of the forest fire service of the state. The Department adopts rules for forest fire prevention, control and suppression.
Summary of Bill:
The Department of Natural Resources must adopt rules that provide for a dedicated radio frequency for fire mobilization that is available to all responders when the forest fire crosses jurisdictional lines.
Regional fire service plans developed by regional fire defense boards must provide for a dedicated radio frequency for fire mobilization that is available to all responders when the forest fire crosses jurisdictional lines.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Requested on 1/18/10.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.