CA SB978

Requires CalRecycle or another state agency managing wildfire debris cleanup to prequalify contractors before major damage occurs to keep them ready for rapid response to incidents.

Mandates contractors submit a sworn questionnaire and financial statement demonstrating their financial ability and experience in debris removal, transport, and recycling or disposal work.

Establishes contractor eligibility requirements including valid general engineering contractor license with hazardous substance removal certification, Department of Industrial Relations registration, and commitment to prevailing wages and apprenticeship programs.

Requires prime contractors to self-perform at least 30 percent of labor hours and maintain an experience modification rate averaging 1.00 or less over the prior three-year period.

Specifies no state reimbursement is required for local agencies since costs result from changes to crime and infraction penalties under the California Constitution.