Plain English Breakdown
The official text confirms the study dates and scope but does not specify which 'specified elements' the group must consider beyond pilot vs. full-scale options.
Study a Year-Round Wildfire Helicopter Program
This law requires the Office of Emergency Services to create a working group to study making a specific wildfire helicopter program permanent and available every day of the year.
What This Bill Does
- Requires the Office of Emergency Services, with help from the Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, to start a working group by December 31, 2026.
- Asks the group to study if the SoCal Edison-funded Quick Reaction Force helitanker program should become permanent in state law.
- Directs the group to evaluate creating a wildfire aerial response program that works year-round, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
- Requires the working group to consider options like starting with a pilot project or launching a full statewide plan based on what is possible.
- Mandates that the Director of Emergency Services appoint members who know about wildfire aviation response programs.
Who It Names or Affects
- The Office of Emergency Services
- The Department of Forestry and Fire Protection
- Members appointed to the new working group
Terms To Know
- Helitanker
- A helicopter equipped with a tank to carry water or fire retardant for dropping on wildfires.
- Working Group
- A team of people formed to study a specific issue and make recommendations.
Limits and Unknowns
- The bill only requires a study; it does not create the permanent program itself.
- It is unknown if the working group will recommend starting with a pilot project or a full statewide plan.
- The final report to state committees must be submitted by December 31, 2027.