JFAC approves Department of Lands FY2026 enhancements including firefighter bonuses, equipment, three FTEs

The Joint Finance-Appropriations Committee on March 14 approved fiscal year 2026 enhancements for the Department of Lands that add three full-time equivalent positions and a mix of ongoing and one-time spending for fire detection, equipment, personnel and replacement items.

Senator Woodward moved the package and Representative Manwaring seconded. The motion included additions of three FTEs (a fire emergency support program manager, a fire aviation section manager, and a statewide forest assessment program manager) and items such as $458,000 for fire detection cameras, $729,800 for fire equipment, $500,000 for statewide security upgrades, $125,000 one‑time bonuses for IDL and Timber Protective Association firefighters, and $150,000 for satellite fire detection and mapping. The motion combined $2,061,200 from the General Fund and $4,744,800 from dedicated funds for a total package of $6,806,000 and three additional positions.

Representative Gallavese noted that the one-time bonuses would include roughly 350 firefighters; committee staff clarified Director Miller reported about 300 individuals received bonuses last year. The roll call returned Senate 9 ayes, 1 nay and House unanimous 10 ayes for a combined 19 ayes, 1 nay. The committee ordered a due-pass recommendation.

Committee members also approved language related to the Abandoned Mines Fund to require at least 90% of reclamation funds to be expended annually for expenses directly related to eligible mine sites and included familiar conditions, limitations and restriction language attached to the motion.