California 2023-2024 Regular Session

California Assembly Bill AB297

Introduced
1/26/23  
Refer
2/2/23  
Introduced
1/26/23  
Introduced
1/26/23  
Refer
2/2/23  
Refer
2/2/23  
Report Pass
3/28/23  
Report Pass
3/28/23  
Refer
3/28/23  
Refer
4/19/23  
Refer
4/19/23  
Refer
4/19/23  
Report Pass
5/18/23  
Engrossed
5/31/23  
Report Pass
5/18/23  
Report Pass
5/18/23  
Refer
6/1/23  
Engrossed
5/31/23  
Engrossed
5/31/23  
Refer
6/14/23  
Refer
6/1/23  
Refer
6/1/23  
Report Pass
6/27/23  
Refer
6/14/23  
Refer
6/14/23  
Report Pass
6/27/23  
Refer
7/10/23  
Refer
6/27/23  
Refer
7/10/23  
Report Pass
9/1/23  
Refer
7/10/23  
Report Pass
9/1/23  
Report Pass
9/1/23  
Enrolled
9/14/23  
Enrolled
9/14/23  
Chaptered
10/8/23  
Enrolled
9/14/23  
Chaptered
10/8/23  

Caption

Wildfires: local assistance grant program: prescribed grazing: advance payments.

Impact

The passing of AB 297 is set to influence state laws by reinforcing the framework within which local agencies can operate to prevent wildfires. The legislation underscores the importance of prescribed grazing as a viable tool for forest management and fire risk reduction. By allowing communities to apply for grants aimed at fire prevention, it promotes local agency engagement, potentially enabling more tailored strategies to address specific regional fire threats. Furthermore, by extending the authority for advance payments on grants, the bill aims to facilitate immediate funding to assist local projects for better resource management and preparedness.

Summary

Assembly Bill 297, introduced by Vince Fong, focuses on enhancing fire prevention efforts in California through the establishment of a local assistance grant program. The bill amends sections of the Public Resources Code, effectively broadening the definition of ‘fire prevention activities’ to include prescribed grazing. This method, which utilizes livestock to manage vegetation, aims to mitigate wildfire risks by reducing fuel loads and encouraging biodiversity. In addition to grazing, the bill supports educational activities advocating for home hardening and fire-resistant practices, elevating community awareness and proactive measures against wildfires.

Sentiment

General sentiment around AB 297 appears to be supportive among stakeholders prioritizing wildfire reduction and community resilience. Proponents argue that integrating prescribed grazing into fire prevention initiatives is a forward-thinking approach that combines environmental stewardship with practical safety measures. However, some concerns have been raised regarding the sustainability of grazing practices and their alignment with native species preservation. This reflects a broader debate on balancing fire prevention techniques with ecological conservation, suggesting that while there is strong support for combating wildfires, there is also a need for careful consideration of the methods employed.

Contention

Notable points of contention include potential disagreements regarding the extent of grazing and its implications for local ecosystems. As prescribed grazing is a relatively new addition to recognized fire prevention methods, discussions around its effectiveness and environmental impact might spark debate among stakeholders, especially among conservationists. Additionally, the bill's provision for advance payments may lead to questions about financial oversight and accountability in the distribution of grants to local agencies.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

CA SB675

Prescribed grazing: local assistance grant program: Wildfire and Forest Resilience Task Force.

CA SB896

Wildfires: defensible space: grant programs: local governments.

CA SB504

Wildfires: defensible space: grant programs: local governments.

CA AB926

Fire prevention: local assistance grant program: projects: report.

CA AB1956

Fire prevention activities: local assistance grant program.

CA AB1255

Fire prevention: fire risk reduction guidance: local assistance grants.

CA AB19

Forestry and fire protection: local assistance grant program: fire prevention activities: street and road vegetation management.

CA SB326

Wildfire safety: fire protection building standards: defensible space requirements: The California Wildfire Mitigation Strategic Planning Act.

CA AB590

State-funded assistance grants and contracts: advance payments.

CA SB1348

Fire prevention: vegetation management: public education: grants: defensible space: fire hazard severity zones: forest management.

Similar Bills

CA SB675

Prescribed grazing: local assistance grant program: Wildfire and Forest Resilience Task Force.

CA AB1956

Fire prevention activities: local assistance grant program.

CA SB504

Wildfires: defensible space: grant programs: local governments.

CA SB1348

Fire prevention: vegetation management: public education: grants: defensible space: fire hazard severity zones: forest management.