The proposed bill establishes the "Strengthen Washington Homes Program," which aims to provide financial grants to property owners, building contractors, and nonprofit organizations to enhance wildfire risk mitigation for insurable dwellings. The program will assist in implementing wildfire preparedness standards set by the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety. To manage the program, a dedicated account will be created to handle funds, including grants and legislative appropriations. The bill also includes provisions that prevent insurers from using wildfire risk as a disqualifying factor for property insurance coverage if the property meets specific wildfire preparedness designations. Additionally, the commissioner will have the authority to adopt rules for grant applications and eligibility criteria.

Furthermore, the bill amends existing laws related to the treasury income account, clarifying that no appropriation is required for certain payments and outlining the distribution of earnings from the account. It introduces the "strengthen Washington homes program account," which will receive a share of these earnings. The bill also emphasizes that no treasury accounts or funds shall receive earnings without a specific affirmative directive, in accordance with the state constitution. Additionally, it establishes expiration dates for certain provisions and specifies effective dates for new sections, ensuring a structured approach to the implementation and management of the program and related financial accounts.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 48.02.190