Washington State
House of Representatives
Office of Program Research
BILL
ANALYSIS
State Government & Tribal Relations Committee
HB 1628
Brief Description: Creating the fire service policy board.
Sponsors: Representatives Bronoske, Griffey, Schmidt, Simmons, Nance, Davis and Salahuddin.
Brief Summary of Bill
  • Establishes the Washington State Fire Policy Board.
Hearing Date: 2/4/25
Staff: Connor Schiff (786-7093).
Background:

The Director of Fire Protection is the State Fire Marshal.? The State Fire Marshal's Office (SFMO) is located within the Washington State Patrol.

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The SFMO must:

  • provide certification for firefighter professional qualifications;
  • coordinate and deliver statewide training for firefighting and hazardous materials;
  • license and issue certifications to businesses and individuals performing design, installation, testing, and maintenance of fire sprinkler systems;
  • publish information regarding fire incidents around the state and timely information for Washington fire service agencies;
  • conduct fire and life safety inspections in childcare, health care, and residential care facilities.
  • regulate fireworks manufacturers, wholesalers, importers, and general display and pyrotechnic operator licensees for statutory compliance;
  • test and certify all cigarette brands sold in Washington under the Fire Safe Cigarette Law, chapter 19.305 RCW; and
  • serve as the fire resources coordinator when the Washington State Fire Services Mobilization Plan (Plan) is implemented. ?The Plan provides personnel, equipment, and other logistical resources when a wildland fire or other emergency exceeds the firefighting capacity of local jurisdictions.
Summary of Bill:

The Washington State Fire Policy Board (Board) is established.? The Board advises the Director of Fire Protection on matters related to the State Fire Marshal's Office.? The Board shall develop recommendations for agency budget requests and strategies to enhance the safe and effective delivery of fire service training and resources.

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The Board consists of the following members:

  • The President of the Washington State Council of Firefighters or the President's designee.
  • The President of the Washington State Firefighters' association or the President's designee.
  • The Executive Director of the Washington State Fire Commissioners Association or the Director's designee.
  • The President of the Washington State Fire Marshals Association or the President's Designee.

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Members of the Board serve without compensation but may be reimbursed for travel expenses.? Details regarding the frequency of Board meetings are provided.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Requested on January 28, 2025.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.