If enacted, this bill would update current statutes by appropriating a total of $12,750,000 from the state General Fund for fiscal year 2025-2026. Specifically, it would allocate $12,500,000 to the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management (DFFM) for grants to fire districts aimed at enhancing wildfire readiness and response. The bill mandates that these funds be distributed equally among DFFM's five fire management districts and specifies that only fire districts designated as fire cooperators can receive these grants. Additionally, the funds can only be used for purchasing type 3 and type 6 fire engines, as well as tactical water tenders.
Furthermore, the bill appropriates $250,000 to the Arizona Trail Fund, which is established for the development and maintenance of the Arizona Trail. This appropriation is exempt from lapsing, meaning it will not expire at the end of the fiscal year, ensuring that the funds remain available for their intended purpose. Overall, the bill introduces new funding provisions while maintaining the existing framework of the relevant statutes.