The bill establishes a Back Country Search and Rescue Grant Program to support organizations and volunteers engaged in search and rescue operations in remote areas. It introduces new definitions and provisions related to back country search and rescue, which is characterized as a specialized form of search and rescue requiring specific training and equipment for locating lost, injured, or deceased individuals in hazardous terrains. The legislation clarifies the roles and responsibilities of emergency management entities and recognizes nonprofit groups as "search and rescue organizations" for their contributions to these efforts.

Additionally, the bill amends existing emergency management laws in Washington State to improve disaster preparedness and support for search and rescue operations. It updates definitions related to public safety answering points and includes provisions for compensating emergency workers for injuries and expenses incurred during these operations. A new back country search and rescue grant program will be administered by the department responsible for emergency management, with a dedicated account created to fund this initiative. The allocated funds will support search and rescue organizations with costs related to planning, equipment, and training, as well as assist political subdivisions with unreimbursed expenses.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 38.52.020