State of emergency declaration would not be needed under bill

Increased emergency funding for aerial fire suppression or hazardous material response would be authorized under a bill heard by the Government, Military and Veterans Affairs Committee Jan. 22.

Currently, the state may grant up to $10,000 per event from the Governor’s Emergency Program without the governor first declaring an emergency. LB772, introduced by Hyannis Sen. Al Davis, would raise that threshold to $25,000 per event.

“It really is important that we get a quick response to a fire situation,” Davis said.

Jerry Stilmock, representing the Nebraska State Volunteer Firefighters Association, supported the bill, saying flexibility is important in managing wildfires.

“In these fires, what is critical is proper action on a moment’s notice,” he said. “We’re just asking for another tool.”

Nebraska Forest Service director Scott Josiah testified in a neutral capacity. He said being able to address a fire quickly can prevent considerable damage.

“Rapid and efficient dispatch is a vitally important component of the aerial wild firefighter’s toolbox,” Josiah said. “It can have a huge impact on the size of a wildfire and the damage it can cause.”

No one testified in opposition to the bill and the committee took no immediate action on it.