Budget Act of 2024.

Assembly Member Essayli's proposal to modify California's controlled burning regulations would shift oversight authority to local fire protection agencies while creating new permitting exemptions for vegetation management activities. The legislation directs the State Air Resources Board to designate public fire protection agencies or equivalent entities to supervise controlled burning operations and develop associated safety protocols.

Under the proposed changes, wildland vegetation management burning conducted by or under the supervision of designated agencies would be exempt from current permitting requirements. The Air Resources Board must establish guidelines and best practices to ensure these exempt activities maintain public safety and environmental protection standards. These provisions aim to streamline the approval process for controlled burns while preserving regulatory oversight through local fire authorities.

The measure amends the 2024 Budget Act and contains an urgency clause for immediate implementation upon enactment. As a budget bill, it requires a simple majority vote for passage but must receive approval from the legislature's fiscal committees before reaching the floor.