The bill amends RCW 43.43.934 to enhance the administration and reimbursement processes for fire service-related training programs overseen by the director of fire protection. It outlines the responsibilities of the director, which include collaborating with educational institutions to provide training programs, developing master plans for training facilities, and establishing a structured plan for delivering basic firefighter training. The bill prioritizes training for volunteer and combination fire departments, while also allowing city fire departments and other public fire agencies to seek reimbursement for their firefighter I training expenses, as per the rules established by the Washington state patrol and the director of fire protection.

Additionally, the bill introduces new provisions that allow the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection, to adopt necessary rules to implement the section effectively. It emphasizes the importance of making training facilities available at no cost to fire service youth programs to promote volunteer firefighter enrollment and enhance diversity within the fire service. The bill aims to improve coordination between state and local fire protection responsibilities and encourages the development of regional units to address specific needs and enhance resource allocation in fire services.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 43.43.934