CA AB1699

Permanently extends the Prescribed Fire Liability Pilot Program (previously set to expire January 1, 2028) and expands eligibility for the Prescribed Fire Claims Fund from nonpublic entities to all individuals and entities except CAL FIRE and the federal government

Eliminates the requirement for CAL FIRE to approve burn plans when a certified burn boss has already reviewed and approved them, and allows the department to waive site inspections for applications from certified burn bosses or cultural fire practitioners

Requires burn boss recertification no sooner than every 3 years and creates pathways for National Wildfire Coordinating Group-qualified individuals and those certified by other states to obtain California burn boss certification

Exempts CAL FIRE's assistance with prescribed fire and cultural burning projects from California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) requirements when those projects don't otherwise require CEQA compliance

Prohibits state agencies from restricting overtime or double-time pay for workers engaged in beneficial fire projects funded by state grants, unless the underlying statute specifically requires such restrictions