SB 762, passed in the 2021 Legislative Session, provided more than $220 million to help Oregon modernize and improve wildfire preparedness. The legislation addressed wildfire issues through three key strategies: creating fire-adapted communities, developing safe and effective responses, and increasing the resiliency of Oregon’s landscapes.
Two key provisions to administering SB 762 were to appoint a Wildfire Programs Director and to establish the Wildfire Programs Advisory Council.
Governor Kate Brown (D) appointed Doug Grafe as Wildfire Programs Director in October of 2021, and the Wildfire Programs Advisory Council was established by the Legislature with a broad cross-section of members, representing different interests and geographic areas of the state.
The Oregon Department of Forestry presented an interim report on the implementation and advancement of SB 762 before the Senate Committee on Natural Resources and Wildfire Recovery on January 12, 2022. The report highlighted the progress made to date on the program implementation including a timeline on each legislative requirement. The report noted, “Overall, implementation for the first quarter of the biennium is progressing well.”
The Wildfire Programs Advisory Council has met twice and will continue to meet quarterly. The next meeting is scheduled for April 8, 2022. The role of the council is to provide advice, assistance, perspective, ideas, and recommendations to the Wildfire Programs Director.
The Association of Oregon Counties is monitoring the implementation of this legislation and continues to engage in workgroups, rulemaking, and advisory committees.
Contributed by: Drenda Howatt | Legislative Affairs Manager