CA SB1176

Requires the Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, Office of Emergency Services, and Department of Toxic Substances Control to form a workgroup to study toxic heavy metal exposure after wildfires, upon appropriation by the Legislature.

Workgroup must establish best practices and recommendations for wildfire-impacted communities and first responders to avoid heavy metal exposure after wildfires.

Workgroup must study ways communities can mitigate, prevent, and remediate heavy metal accumulation in the environment after wildfires, including through bioremediation methods.

Authorizes the Department of Forestry and Fire Protection to contract with public universities, research institutions, and technical experts to support the workgroup.

Requires a report to the Legislature by January 1, 2026 with findings from the three departments, with the reporting requirement expiring January 1, 2030.