CA SB109

Establishes the Office of Wildfire Technology Research and Development within the Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, operating under the direct control of the Director, to study, test, and evaluate emerging wildfire prevention and suppression technologies.

Office responsibilities include developing a multimodal research program to identify and test emerging technologies, consulting with public and private entities on new tools and advances, and making procurement recommendations to state and local agencies.

Creates a nine-member Wildfire Technology Research and Development Review Advisory Board including the Secretary of Natural Resources Agency, Director of Office of Emergency Services, Director of Forestry and Fire Protection, four Governor-appointed members, and one member each appointed by the Senate and Assembly.

Requires the board to meet at least four times per year and deliver findings and recommendations to the Governor and Legislature no later than January 1, 2024, and annually thereafter.

Sunsets on January 1, 2029, with board members serving without compensation but eligible for reimbursement of actual expenses.