California Assembly Bill AB9

California 2021-2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 12/7/20
• Refer: 3/25/21
• Report Pass: 3/25/21
• Refer: 3/26/21
• Report Pass: 4/5/21
• Refer: 4/6/21
• Report Pass: 4/15/21
• Refer: 4/20/21
• Report Pass: 4/29/21
• Refer: 4/29/21
• Refer: 5/12/21
• Report Pass: 5/20/21
• Engrossed: 5/27/21
• Refer: 5/28/21
• Refer: 6/9/21
• Report Pass: 7/5/21
• Refer: 7/5/21
• Report Pass: 7/13/21
• Refer: 7/14/21
• Refer: 8/16/21
• Report Pass: 8/26/21
• Enrolled: 9/9/21
• Chaptered: 9/23/21
• Passed: 9/23/21

Caption

Fire safety and prevention: wildfires: fire adapted communities: Office of the State Fire Marshal: community wildfire preparedness and mitigation.

Impact

The enactment of AB 9 significantly alters the responsibilities of fire prevention and safety from the Department of Forestry and Fire Protection to the Office of the State Fire Marshal. This amendment clarifies the delegation of duties, creating roles such as the Deputy Director of Community Wildfire Preparedness and Mitigation, whose focus will prioritize community-centered strategies over traditional firefighting duties. Additionally, the bill necessitates the provision of block grants to aid regional entities in the development of effective strategies for wildfire risk management.

Summary

Assembly Bill No. 9 focuses on enhancing fire safety and prevention measures in California, particularly in response to the increasing intensity and frequency of wildfires due to climate change and population growth. The bill aims to create fire-adapted communities by establishing the Regional Forest and Fire Capacity Program, which seeks to boost local and regional capacities through collaboration and strategic project implementation aimed at improving ecosystem health and community wildfire preparedness. This regulatory effort underscores the importance of proactive measures in mitigating wildfire risks.

Sentiment

Generally, the sentiment around AB 9 reflects a strong bipartisan consensus regarding the importance of wildfire prevention, especially given California's devastating fire history. Many supporters view the bill as a crucial step toward enhancing statewide fire resilience and community preparedness. However, there are concerns regarding the practical implementation of this ambitious program, particularly with regard to the adequacy of funding and resource allocation required to achieve its goals.

Contention

Discussions around AB 9 reveal notable contention about resource allocation and the potential for bureaucratic overlap in wildfire management responsibilities. Critics argue that while the intention of enhancing community fire preparedness is valid, the shift in responsibilities might lead to inefficiencies unless adequately funded and well-coordinated across state agencies. The bill's dependence on appropriations from the legislature for certain provisions further complicates its rollout, raising questions about budgetary commitments in the long term.