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Bill

Bill

SB 2356

SALARIED BOARD CONFIRMATION

104th Regular Session Introduced by Jason Plummer

SB 2356 boosts wildfire management by funding prevention efforts, creating key positions, and forming task forces to protect at-risk communities and enhance response capabilities.

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Bill Summary · SB 2356

Summary of SB 2356: Relating to Wildfires

Bill Overview

Bill Number: SB 2356
Introduced On: January 19, 2024
Current Status: Deferred by the committees on AEN and PSM
Classification: Legislative Bill
Subject Areas: Appropriation, Department of Defense (DOD), Expenditure Ceiling, State Wildfire Chief, State Wildfire Corps, State Wildfire Fuel Reduction Task Force, State Wildfire Marshal

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of SB 2356 is to enhance the state's capacity to manage and mitigate wildfire risks. The bill aims to establish a structured approach to wildfire prevention, response, and recovery by allocating resources and defining roles within state agencies.

Key Provisions

  • Appropriations: The bill proposes financial appropriations to support various wildfire management initiatives, although specific dollar amounts are not detailed in the current version.
  • Creation of Positions: It seeks to establish key positions, including:
    • State Wildfire Chief: Responsible for overseeing wildfire management strategies.
    • State Wildfire Corps: A dedicated team to assist in wildfire prevention and response efforts.
  • Formation of Task Forces: The bill outlines the creation of the State Wildfire Fuel Reduction Task Force, which will focus on reducing fuel loads in at-risk areas to prevent wildfires.
  • Role of the State Wildfire Marshal: The bill emphasizes the importance of the State Wildfire Marshal in coordinating statewide wildfire response efforts.

Impact

The implementation of SB 2356 would primarily affect:
- State Agencies: Agencies involved in emergency management, forestry, and public safety would see changes in their operational frameworks and responsibilities.
- Communities at Risk: Areas prone to wildfires would benefit from enhanced prevention measures and quicker response times, potentially reducing the impact of wildfires on residents and infrastructure.
- Wildfire Management Personnel: The establishment of new positions and task forces would create job opportunities and enhance the state's wildfire management capabilities.

Procedural Timeline

  • January 19, 2024: Bill introduced and passed the first reading.
  • January 22, 2024: Referred to the committees on PSM, WAM/JDC.
  • February 2, 2024: Scheduled for a public hearing on February 5, 2024, at 3:00 PM in Conference Room 225 & via videoconference.
  • February 5, 2024: Deferred by the committees on AEN and PSM.

Conclusion

SB 2356 represents a proactive approach to wildfire management in the state, aiming to allocate necessary resources and establish a framework for effective wildfire prevention and response. The bill's progression will be closely monitored as it moves through the legislative process.

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

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