CA AB2151

Counties and city-counties may seek reimbursement from residents age 16 and older for actual search and rescue costs if the need resulted from intentional violations of law or wanton reckless misconduct endangering the person's safety.

Reimbursement claims are limited to $12,000 per incident, adjusted annually for inflation based on the California Consumer Price Index, unless the search or rescue was caused by a felony criminal violation.

Counties and city-counties must not collect reimbursement from residents determined to be unable to pay the charges.

County or city-county boards of supervisors must pass an ordinance authorizing reimbursement collection before seeking payment from residents.

Residents must pay billed charges within 30 days, and counties may seek reimbursement from other counties for search and rescue expenses exceeding $100 for their residents.