JFAC transfers $40 million to fire suppression fund, approves Department of Lands FY2026 enhancements

The Joint Finance‑Appropriations Committee on March 14 approved a one‑time transfer of $40,000,000 from the General Fund to the Fire Suppression Deficiency Fund and later approved a separate FY2026 enhancement package for the Department of Lands.

The transfer motion was presented by Janet Jessup, budget and policy analyst, who told the committee: “This request is for a transfer of $40,000,000 one time from the general fund to the fire suppression deficiency fund.” Representative Lance Manwaring moved the transfer; it carried unanimously, with the committees voting a combined 20 ayes, 0 nays.

Why it matters: the Fire Suppression Deficiency Fund is a continuously appropriated account that the Department of Lands uses to pay firefighting costs statewide during fire season. Committee members noted last year’s fire costs were about $60,000,000, and that the $40 million transfer should bring the fund balance above $50,000,000. Committee members also acknowledged the department retains tools such as the deficiency warrant process to cover costs if a similar fire season recurs.

Details of FY2026 enhancements: in a later item the committee considered a multi-part FY2026 package for the Department of Lands that adds three full‑time positions and a mix of general‑fund and dedicated‑fund spending for equipment, technology and personnel. Senator Woodward offered the motion that, as recommended, added $2,061,200 from the General Fund and $4,744,800 from dedicated funds for a total of $6,806,000 and three additional full‑time equivalents. The package specified line items including funding for fire detection cameras, fire equipment, replacement and security items, GIS enhancements, and adjustments tied to Timber Protective Associations (TPAs). Representative Gallavese noted the motion includes one‑time firefighter bonuses and said the payment pool covers “upwards of 350 firefighters,” while the department reported that roughly 300 individuals received bonuses last year.

Roll call results and outcome: the FY2026 enhancement motion passed on the committee floor with a combined 19 ayes and 1 nay (Senate: 9 ayes, 1 nay; House: unanimous 10 ayes). The motion carries a due‑pass recommendation to the floor.

Implementation and follow up: committee staff said language accompanying the Lands motions (conditions, limitations and restrictions) was adopted and will travel with the bills. Committee members discussed that if the coming fire season approaches last year’s costs, the department may again use the deficiency warrant process to draw additional funds.

Ending: The committee approved both the one‑time transfer to shore up the fire fund and the department’s FY2026 enhancement package; both measures were sent forward with due‑pass recommendations.