The bill establishes a Back Country Search and Rescue Grant Program to support organizations and volunteers engaged in back country search and rescue operations. It amends existing laws, specifically RCW 38.52.020 and RCW 38.52.010, to introduce new definitions, including "Back country search and rescue," which refers to the activities of locating lost, injured, or deceased individuals in remote areas, and "Search and rescue organization," defined as a nonprofit entity recognized by local authorities for their involvement in such activities. The amendments also clarify existing definitions related to emergency services and the roles of emergency workers, aiming to improve the operational efficiency of emergency response efforts.

Additionally, the bill updates the emergency management framework in Washington State to enhance disaster preparedness and support for search and rescue operations. It modifies the definition of "Washington state patrol public safety answering points" and includes provisions for compensating emergency workers involved in back country search and rescue. The new grant program will be administered by the department responsible for emergency management, with a dedicated account funded through various appropriations and donations. The program will prioritize grants for search and rescue organizations and political subdivisions, particularly in frontier and rural counties and distressed areas, thereby enhancing public safety in remote locations.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 38.52.020
Substitute Bill: 38.52.020