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Bill

HB 1048

Concerning a rangeland fire protection association pilot project.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Tom Dent and 2 co-sponsors

Washington establishes rangeland fire protection association pilot project enabling coordinated local wildfire prevention and response efforts on state rangelands.

Referred to Appropriations.
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Bill Summary · HB 1048

Legislative bill overview

HB 1048 establishes a pilot project for rangeland fire protection associations in Washington State. The bill, sponsored by rural representatives, creates a framework for landowners and stakeholders to organize collective fire prevention and response efforts on rangeland properties.

Why is this important

Rangelands in Washington cover millions of acres and face increasing wildfire risk due to climate change and drought conditions. Coordinated fire protection at the local level can reduce response times, share equipment costs, and potentially prevent catastrophic fires that threaten both rural communities and broader regional air quality.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding mechanisms: The bill's referral to Appropriations suggests questions about whether state general funds, user fees, or public-private partnerships will finance the pilot
  • Liability and authority: Unclear how liability is distributed between associations, participating landowners, and the state during fire response operations
  • Urban-rural resource allocation: Rural fire protection investments may compete with other state priorities during budget negotiations, particularly in populated areas

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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