The proposed bill, if enacted, would amend current statutes by appropriating $6.5 million from the state General Fund for fiscal year 2025-2026 to the Arizona Department of Administration (ADOA) specifically for a fire incident management grant program. This funding would be allocated with a cap of $250,000 for administrative costs, including audits of grant recipients, while the remaining funds would be directed towards grants for municipal fire departments and fire districts. The bill outlines specific requirements for the hardware and software to be funded, emphasizing the need for a secure incident management platform that adheres to federal standards and facilitates effective communication and collaboration among emergency response agencies.
Additionally, the bill introduces a structured process for grant applications, allowing each municipal fire department or fire district to submit requests for funding that meets the established criteria. Grants would be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis and are designed to fully cover the costs of the secure incident management system for a duration of three years. This legislative update aims to enhance the capabilities of fire and law enforcement agencies in managing incidents effectively and ensuring the safety of first responders.