The bill establishes a law enforcement aviation support grant program aimed at providing financial assistance to local law enforcement aviation support units in Washington State. The program will be developed and implemented by the department, contingent on appropriated funds, and will recognize rotary wing aviation support units that offer assistance without financial obligation to the requesting jurisdiction. The bill mandates that 50% of the appropriated funds be distributed equally among these recognized units for operational costs, including pilot and crew expenses, aircraft maintenance, and training. Additionally, the remaining funds will be available for reimbursement of costs associated with search and rescue missions, while any leftover funds at the end of the fiscal year will be allocated to the aviation section of the Washington State Patrol.

The bill also amends existing laws to include sheriff's offices in the provisions related to aerial fire response capabilities and initial attack strategies for wildland fires. It requires local fire departments and sheriff's offices to enter into response agreements and document training for personnel regarding aviation asset usage. The bill emphasizes the importance of immediate access to aviation resources for effective fire suppression and aims to provide financial assurances to local agencies to enhance their capacity to control wildland fires. The new provisions will expire on July 1, 2027, ensuring a review of the program's effectiveness and needs in the future.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 76.04.194, 76.04.192