H.B. 873 78(R)    BILL ANALYSIS


H.B. 873
By: Robby Cook
Agriculture & Livestock
Committee Report (Unamended)



BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE 

The 77th Legislature passed House Bill 3667 establishing the rural
volunteer fire department insurance program and imposed a two percent
sales tax on fireworks. Prior to the establishment of this  fund, the
primary source of revenue for rural volunteer fire departments in this
state was through fundraisers and donations.  Even though such fire
departments operate with little or no reserve personnel funds, they
respond to most of the wildland fires around the state. The bill also
established an advisory committee to help the director in regard to the
administration of the program.  

HB 873 amends the requirements for the membership of the advisory
committee and adds the National Wildfire Coordinating Group as an eligible
participant in firefighter certification.  

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not expressly grant any
additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, department, agency, or
institution. 

ANALYSIS

House Bill 873  adds the National Wildfire Coordinating Group as an
eligible participant in firefighter certification.  The bill also deletes
the occupational requirements but retains the regional representation of
the advisory committee and allows the advisory committee members to
receive reimbursement for travel expenses.   


EFFECTIVE DATE

September 1, 2003.