SENATE BILL REPORT
HB 2104
As of February 23, 2026
Title: An act relating to aviation assurance funding in response to wildland fires.
Brief Description: Concerning aviation assurance funding in response to wildland fires.
Sponsors: Representatives Dent, Springer, Ryu, Engell, Low, Simmons, Richards, Barnard, Keaton, Reed, Dye, Reeves, Shavers, McClintock, Thai and Graham.
Brief History: Passed House: 2/13/26, 94-0.
Committee Activity: Agriculture & Natural Resources: 2/19/26.
Brief Summary of Bill
  • Removes a July 1, 2027 expiration date for the Aviation Assurance Funding Program for local wildland fire response.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON AGRICULTURE & NATURAL RESOURCES
Staff: Jeff Olsen (786-7428)
Background:

ESHB 1498, enacted in 2023, created the Aviation Assurance Funding Program to provide state aviation resources to local fire departments in limited circumstances.  This legislation expires July 1, 2027.

 

The Aviation Assurance Funding Program requires the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to use suppression funding to assist local fire departments with aerial response during the initial attack of wildland fires meeting certain parameters.  Local fire departments must:

  • have entered into a response agreement with DNR;
  • provide documentation of specific personnel training; and
  • make direct requests to the appropriate coordination center.

 

Aviation assets used in the initial attack must come from a list of private contractors approved by DNR on certain agreements, based on DNR's annual review of needs.

 

DNR must provide information to the Legislature in an annual report regarding the program usage, lessons learned, and recommendations for future improvements.  DNR must annually consult with the State Fire Defense Committee, fire service representatives, and the State Fire Marshal's Office to review the program performance and upcoming aviation needs.
Summary of Bill:

The July 1, 2027 expiration date for the Aviation Assurance Funding Program is repealed.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Creates Committee/Commission/Task Force that includes Legislative members: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.