This bill appropriates $19,000,000 from the General Fund for the fiscal year 2025-26 to the Department of Administrative Services, specifically for Program 245. The funds are designated for the office of the Chief Information Officer to enhance interoperable communications between state agencies and volunteer departments. This includes providing portable and mobile radios, programming, and installation of equipment, as well as training for interoperability with the Statewide Radio System. The eligibility for the grant program will be determined by the number and type of radios needed by each volunteer department, and no fees will be charged to these departments for services after receiving a grant. The Legislature intends for all grant funds to be distributed by June 30, 2028.

Additionally, the bill declares an emergency, allowing it to take effect immediately upon passage and approval. The definition of "volunteer department" is aligned with the existing law in section 35-901.