FINAL BILL REPORT
EHB 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. |
C 38 L 10
Synopsis as Enacted
Brief Description: Concerning communications during a forest fire response.
Sponsors: Representatives Chandler, Simpson, Kelley and Warnick.
House Committee on Agriculture & Natural Resources
Senate Committee on Natural Resources, Ocean & Recreation
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 (DNR).
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 DNR is in direct charge of the forest fire service of the state. The DNR adopts rules for forest fire prevention, control and suppression.
The state Interoperability Executive Committee was formed in 2003 by the Legislature to develop policies and make recommendations to the Information Services Board regarding technical standards for state radio communications systems, including emergency communications systems. The interoperability of communication systems ensures that all emergency responders can communicate with each other across all levels of government and across all jurisdictions.
Summary:
The DNR must adopt rules that provide for dedicated radio frequencies, or other interoperability radio frequencies, for fire mobilization that are available to all responders when the forest fire crosses jurisdictional lines.
Regional fire service plans developed by regional fire defense boards must provide for dedicated radio frequencies, or other interoperability radio frequencies, for fire mobilization that are available to all responders when the forest fire crosses jurisdictional lines.
Votes on Final Passage:
House | 96 | 0 | |
Senate | 45 | 0 |
Effective: | June 10, 2010 |