The proposed bill would amend current statutes related to the management of native plants in the context of wildfire prevention and suppression. Under current law, state agencies must notify the Arizona Department of Agriculture (AZDA) at least 60 days prior to the removal or destruction of protected native plants over an area exceeding one-fourth acre, except in emergencies. The bill introduces an exemption for the Department of Forestry and Fire Management (DFFM) when the State Forester determines that such actions are necessary to prevent, manage, or suppress wildfires. This change would allow the DFFM to bypass the notification requirement in these specific circumstances.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that the DFFM is exempt from existing provisions regarding protected native plants when acting to prevent, manage, or suppress wildfires. It also makes technical changes to the language of the statutes, including the replacement of gender-specific terms and the addition of new exemptions related to wildfire management. Overall, the bill aims to streamline the process for wildfire management while ensuring that the DFFM can act swiftly in the interest of public safety without the constraints of existing notification requirements.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 3-905, 3-915, 37-1303, 3-904
House Engrossed Version: 3-905, 3-915, 37-1303, 3-904
Chaptered Version: 3-905, 3-915, 37-1303, 3-904