The bill establishes a prescribed fire claims fund pilot program in Washington to address the increasing risks of wildfires and promote forest health through prescribed and cultural burning. It recognizes the need for a significant increase in prescribed burning to manage hazardous fuels and enhance ecosystem resilience. The program aims to provide financial coverage for losses resulting from these burns, thereby reducing the liability concerns that currently deter their implementation. The fund will support claims for damages caused by prescribed fires conducted under approved plans and permits, with specific eligibility criteria outlined for reimbursement.

Additionally, the bill amends RCW 4.92.220 to include the administration of the prescribed fire claims fund pilot program as an allowable expenditure from the risk management administration account. It establishes guidelines for the program's operation, including collaboration with relevant agencies and stakeholders, and sets a reimbursement cap of $2,000,000 per claim. The program is set to expire on June 30, 2033, unless specific funding is provided by June 30, 2025, in the omnibus appropriations act, at which point the act would become null and void. The bill emphasizes the urgency of the situation by declaring an emergency, allowing it to take effect immediately.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 43.376.010
Substitute Bill: 43.376.010
Second Substitute: 43.376.010
Engrossed Second Substitute: 43.376.010
Bill as Passed Legislature: 43.376.010
Session Law: 43.376.010