SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5311

BYSenators Barr and Owen

Restricting liability of department of natural resources to volunteer fire fighters.

Senate Committee on Natural Resources

Senate Hearing Date(s):February 4, 1987

Majority Report:  That Substitute Senate Bill No. 5311 be substituted therefor, and the substitute bill do pass.

      Signed by Senators Owen, Chairman; DeJarnatt, Vice Chairman; Barr, Craswell, McDonald, Metcalf, Patterson, Stratton.

Senate Staff:Kaleen Cottingham (786-7415)

                  February 4, 1987

AS REPORTED BY COMMITTEE ON NATURAL RESOURCES, FEBRUARY 4, 1987

BACKGROUND:

"Forest Fire Service" is defined to include all wardens, rangers, and other persons employed especially for preventing or fighting forest fires.  The DNR may employ a sufficient number of persons to extinguish or prevent the spreading of any forest fire.  Each of these persons is entitled to compensation at a rate set by the DNR.

The fire wardens also have the authority to summon, impress and employ help in controlling wildfire.

Concern has been raised that the potential of liability has made the DNR hesitant to accept volunteers on forest fire suppression.

SUMMARY:

The DNR shall not be liable for injuries to volunteers or others who arrive at the scene of a fire.  The DNR shall be liable for its employees only.

EFFECT OF PROPOSED SUBSTITUTE:

The DNR shall not be liable for injuries to volunteers who arrive at the scene of a fire whether or not they are under the direction or control of the DNR.

Fiscal Note:      none requested

Senate Committee - Testified: Mary Joe Lavin, DNR; Arlie Clinkenbeard, Okanogan County Commissioner