Office of Emergency Services: firefighting mutual aid.

California's Assembly Committee on Emergency Management proposes establishing a comprehensive Firefighting Mutual Aid and Prepositioning Program to formalize resource sharing and cost reimbursement protocols among firefighting agencies during emergencies. The program, to be administered by the Office of Emergency Services, would create standardized procedures for deploying fire engines, personnel, and specialized equipment across jurisdictions.

The legislation outlines four primary components of the program. First, it codifies implementation protocols for the state's existing fire service and rescue emergency mutual aid system. Second, it establishes guidelines for the Mutual Aid Fire Engine Program, allowing agencies to share engines for emergency response, training, and temporary replacement needs. Third, it creates a mechanism to reimburse agencies for costs related to staffing, training, and acquiring specialized equipment like super hose tenders and mobile hydrants. Finally, it implements a reimbursement structure for agencies providing mutual aid, covering expenses such as personnel costs, equipment, lodging, and protective gear.

The bill builds upon California's current emergency response framework by adding specific provisions for resource coordination between local fire departments and CAL FIRE. While the legislation requires no new appropriations, it establishes formal processes for agencies to recover costs incurred while assisting other jurisdictions during emergencies. The Office of Emergency Services would oversee program implementation, including development of reimbursement procedures and coordination protocols among participating agencies.