BOISE, Idaho (KIFI) - Governor Brad Little signed House Bill 588 Thursday, authorizing wildland firefighters to receive hazard pay while working in dangerous conditions.
This legislation underpins a movement to modernize the Department of Lands’ (IDL) wildfire management program.
The bill, which enjoyed broad support among Idaho’s policy makers, enables Idaho’s wildland firefighters to receive competitive compensation on par with their federal peers and other western states when working on an uncontrolled fire or at an active fire helibase. Sen. Jim Woodward and Rep. Sage Dixon carried the bill through their respective chambers in the legislature.
“It’s important we lead the way in recruiting and keeping well-trained wildland firefighters,” Governor Little said. “It protects our communities, access to our forests, and our $2.4 billion forest products industry, a major driver for Idaho’s local and state economies.”
Without the hazard pay, after just two seasons 40% of IDL wildland firefighters do not return to work for the agency. This high turnover rate, given training requirements, is costly and potentially dangerous. Individuals seeking careers in fire often use IDL to obtain certifications and experience, then move on to obtain permanent or higher paying jobs elsewhere.
“Fighting wildland fire is inherently dangerous work,” Little said. “Since the consequence for making a mistake can be serious injury or death, retaining experienced personnel is crucial for keeping all...
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