OLYMPIA – Gusty winds and dry conditions can cause wildfires to spread rapidly, increasing damage and endangering lives. But deploying resources ahead of fire outbreaks will now be easier thanks to House Bill 1271, introduced by Rep. Greg Nance (D-Kitsap) and signed into law by Governor Ferguson on Monday, May 12.
“Wildfires don’t wait for us to get ready before they cause destruction and take lives,” said Rep. Nance. “Early deployment puts us ahead of the fire—not behind it—so we can best support firefighters to protect people and property across the state.”
The bill, which took effect immediately upon the Governor’s signature, explicitly authorizes the state to deploy firefighting resources in anticipation of a wildfire when it’s expected to exceed local capacity. It also guarantees fair reimbursement for all participating jurisdictions, a critical support for small communities with limited budgets.
“Empowering state and local governments to work together with emergency managers and first responders means faster, more effective responses—and more protection for people living in fire-prone areas,” Nance added. “With the threat of wildfires growing every year, we need to make sure our toolbox is as strong as possible.”
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