California Assembly Bill AB2091

California 2017-2018 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/7/18
• Refer: 2/16/18
• Report Pass: 3/12/18
• Refer: 3/13/18
• Report Pass: 4/12/18
• Refer: 4/17/18
• Refer: 5/16/18
• Report Pass: 5/25/18
• Engrossed: 5/31/18
• Refer: 6/4/18
• Refer: 6/13/18
• Report Pass: 7/2/18
• Refer: 7/3/18
• Refer: 8/6/18
• Report Pass: 8/20/18
• Enrolled: 8/30/18
• Chaptered: 9/21/18
• Passed: 9/21/18

Caption

Fire prevention: prescribed burns: insurance pool.

Impact

The bill significantly impacts existing fire management policies by easing the regulatory environment surrounding prescribed burns. It is designed to streamline the permitting process that landowners must navigate to utilize prescribed burning as a land management tool. By working in conjunction with the Department of Insurance and involving the Forest Management Task Force, the bill aims to systematically reduce barriers that have historically hampered the adoption of prescribed fire practices. This legislative measure is aligned with ongoing executive efforts to improve forest health and mitigate the risk of catastrophic wildfires through proactive management strategies.

Summary

Assembly Bill 2091, introduced by Grayson, aims to enhance fire prevention efforts in California by facilitating the use of prescribed burns. The bill underscores the legislative intent to increase the scale and pace of these burns, which are important for managing forest health and reducing fire hazards. To support this initiative, it mandates the creation of an insurance pool or a similar mechanism intended to lower costs for prescribed burn managers while ensuring adequate liability coverage for any potential damages or losses related to burn operations. This insurance framework is expected to relieve financial burdens that currently deter land managers from conducting prescribed burns.

Sentiment

The sentiment regarding AB 2091 has been largely positive among proponents who view it as a necessary step toward better fire management and prevention in California. Supporters argue that increasing the use of prescribed burns will not only protect local ecosystems but also safeguard communities from the ravages of uncontrolled wildfires. However, there may be some concern from environmental groups and community members about the effective implementation of such burns, as issues surrounding smoke management and air quality have been contentious in the past.

Contention

While the intent of the bill is broadly supported, debates exist concerning the practical aspects of implementing prescribed burns. Some stakeholders argue that without proper oversight, these burns could inadvertently endanger communities or wildlife. Adequate training and resources for burn managers are critical points of contention, as is the need for rigorous standards ensuring that the burns are conducted safely. The establishment of the insurance pool is anticipated to mitigate some financial hesitancy, though detailed guidelines will be essential to ensure the safety of residents and the environment during and after burns.