Session: State Capitol, Room 108 Juneau, AK 99801-1182 Phone: (907) 465-3878 Fax: (907) 465-3265 Interim: 600 E. Railroad Ave., Suite 1 Wasilla, AK 99654 Phone: (907) 376-4866 Fax: (907) 373-4724

Sponsor Statement for HB 425
Wildfires and other Natural Disasters

An Act relating to wildfires and other natural disasters.

HB 425 was introduced to address the concerns of private property owners and residents during emergency management of wildfires and disaster areas. This legislation places language in statute that more equitably balances the rights of private property owners and residents with the demands of emergency personnel to protect life and property.

The bill establishes statutory guidelines for private property owners and emergency personnel during wildfires and natural disasters. HB 425 provides that an adult resident or property owner:

• May choose not to evacuate an area;
• Shall be permitted to enter a threatened area, if entry does not interfere with emergency personnel, the resident or land owner provides proof of residency or property ownership, and is informed that entry or reentry is at the resident's own risk.

HB 425 also provides statutory protections for all emergency personnel from liability if a property owner or resident is injured or killed due to choosing not to evacuate or choosing to reenter an area threatened or affected by wildfire or natural disaster.

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