The Extreme Weather Protection Act aims to address the public health challenges posed by extreme weather events, such as severe cold and heat, particularly for vulnerable populations in Washington. The legislation recognizes that certain groups, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, low-income families, and pets, are disproportionately affected by these conditions. The act establishes a framework for providing supplemental resources to local jurisdictions and tribal partners to help them respond effectively during extreme weather events, acknowledging the increasing frequency of such events due to climate change.

To facilitate this response, the act introduces an extreme weather response grant program managed by the department, which will provide financial assistance to political subdivisions and federally recognized tribes. The grants can be used for various activities, including establishing warming and cooling centers, transporting individuals and their pets, and retrofitting facilities to be pet-friendly. Additionally, the act amends existing law to allow expenditures from the disaster response account to include grants awarded under this new program, ensuring that funding is available to support local emergency management efforts during extreme weather events.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 38.52.070
Substitute Bill: 38.52.070
Bill as Passed Legislature: 38.52.070
Session Law: 38.52.070