California Senate Bill SB109

California 2021-2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/6/21
• Refer: 1/28/21
• Report Pass: 3/9/21
• Refer: 3/9/21
• Report Pass: 5/20/21
• Engrossed: 6/1/21
• Refer: 6/10/21
• Refer: 6/16/21
• Refer: 6/29/21
• Report Pass: 7/6/21
• Refer: 7/6/21
• Refer: 7/9/21
• Report Pass: 8/26/21
• Enrolled: 9/2/21
• Chaptered: 9/23/21
• Passed: 9/23/21

Caption

Department of Forestry and Fire Protection: Office of Wildfire Technology Research and Development.

Impact

The bill mandates the establishment of a technological advisory board overseeing the new office, which will evaluate and recommend innovations in firefighting technologies. It emphasizes the importance of a structured approach to developing and integrating effective tools and techniques for wildfire management. The office will be subject to regular reviews, with findings reported annually to the Governor and the Legislature, ensuring accountability and ongoing assessment of advancements in wildfire technology.

Summary

Senate Bill 109, initiated by Senator Dodd, focuses on enhancing California's capability to prevent and manage wildfires through the establishment of the Office of Wildfire Technology Research and Development within the Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. This office is tasked with researching, testing, and advising on emerging technologies and tools aimed at improving wildfire suppression and prevention strategies across the state. The bill reflects the growing urgency to address wildfire threats, given California's historic frequency of devastating fires.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding SB 109 appears largely supportive, grounded in the necessity of improving response measures to wildfires which pose significant threats to California's residents, environment, and economy. Lawmakers and stakeholders seem to acknowledge the need for a dedicated focus on technological advancements in this regard, particularly after witnessing the catastrophic wildfires in prior years, which have highlighted the inadequacies in existing response strategies.

Contention

Although there may not be significant public contention reported specifically against SB 109, some opponents might question the effectiveness of establishing a new office when resources may already be limited. Others could argue about the importance of ensuring local governments retain some control over firefighting strategies rather than centralizing decision-making. Nonetheless, the bill outlines the necessity of applying modern technology to evolving challenges, suggesting a proactive approach to wildfire management that aligns with contemporary needs.