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AB 247

Incarcerated individual hand crew members: wages.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Dawn Addis and 22 co-sponsors

California law increases wages for incarcerated hand crew firefighters and conservation workers, improving economic circumstances for thousands performing dangerous state work.

Chaptered by Secretary of State - Chapter 681, Statutes of 2025.
#incarceratedindividualhandcrewmembers #wages
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Bill Summary · AB 247

Legislative bill overview

AB 247 increases wages for incarcerated individuals who work on state hand crews (firefighting and land management crews). The bill was signed into law in October 2025 with unanimous support in both chambers, indicating broad bipartisan agreement on the measure.

Why is this important

Incarcerated workers performing dangerous firefighting and conservation work have historically earned minimal wages—often pennies per hour. This wage increase affects thousands of individuals currently and formerly incarcerated in California, improving their economic circumstances during and after incarceration, which research suggests reduces recidivism. The issue has gained attention amid California's reliance on incarcerated labor for wildfire suppression, particularly as climate change increases fire frequency.

Potential points of contention

  • Labor market impact: Critics may argue higher incarcerated worker wages could reduce incentives for hiring non-incarcerated workers or strain correctional budgets, though supporters note the wages remain well below market rates
  • Implementation costs: Funding the wage increase requires budgetary allocation from the state corrections system, potentially competing with other prison programs or services
  • Scope limitations: The bill specifically targets hand crew members; questions remain about wage equity for other incarcerated workers in different prison jobs and whether similar increases should apply broadly

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

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