CA SB1079

Establishes a Fire Innovation Unit (FIU) within the Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, led by a Deputy Director of Wildfire Innovation, to serve as the state's principal hub for wildfire technology research, procurement, and deployment

Creates three programs within the FIU: Office of Wildfire Technology Research and Development (evaluates technologies), Innovation, Outreach and Coordination Program (connects technologists with firefighters), and Rapid Acquisition and Deployment Program (pilots and scales technologies)

Authorizes a Wildfire Innovation Grant Program to fund early-stage, mature, or dual-use technology projects that enhance wildfire readiness, mitigation, or response

Allows the FIU to award follow-on contracts to technology vendors that complete successful pilot projects without requiring a separate competitive solicitation process

Requires annual reports to the Governor and Legislature beginning January 1, 2028, summarizing technologies evaluated and deployed; provisions sunset on January 1, 2033