California Bill returns after unanimous Assembly passage and closed-door defeat in Senate Appropriations
SACRAMENTO — Assemblymember Sade Elhawary (AD-57) today introduced Assembly Bill 2483 to establish clear, accountable career pathways for incarcerated firefighters seeking to enter California’s fire service upon release.
Last year, Elhawary championed a version of the bill that passed every policy committee with bipartisan support and cleared the Assembly Floor unanimously before being held in the Senate Appropriations Committee’s suspense file process without a public vote.
AB 2483 would recognize training completed through California’s Conservation Camp program and create a structured pathway to industry-recognized, entry-level certifications upon release. It reflects extensive stakeholder engagement and incorporates refinements made last year to address implementation concerns while maintaining rigorous qualification standards.
Assemblymember Sade Elhawary (author of AB 2483):
“For nearly a century, California has relied on incarcerated firefighters to protect our communities during the most devastating wildfires. They have done the work, taken the risks, and shown up when it mattered most. Reintroducing this bill is about finally doing right by them. AB 2483 creates a permanent pathway into real firefighting careers for people who have already put their lives on the line to protect us. If you do the work, you deserve a fair shot at a real career.”
Royal Ramey, co-founder & CEO, The Forestry and Fire Recruitment Program (Co-Sponsor):
“As someone who once served in a fire camp, I know firsthand that the training and experience gained there are real. AB 2483 does not lower standards or hand out unearned credentials. It creates a pathway for qualified individuals to meet industry requirements and continue serving our communities. California faces an ongoing wildfire crisis. We cannot afford to waste trained talent.”
Mayra Lombera, chief policy officer, Michelson Center for Public Policy (Co-Sponsor):
“AB 2483 is a common-sense workforce measure that strengthens our fire response while honoring the service of incarcerated firefighters with valuable experience. Last year’s bill earned bipartisan support at every stage before being sidelined in a closed-door process. We listened carefully to stakeholder concerns, made meaningful adjustments, and return this year with a stronger bill and an even more dedicated coalition.”
Cristine Soto DeBerry, executive director, Prosecutors Alliance Action (Co-Sponsor):
“Those who’ve fought our wildfires while incarcerated have earned the chance to turn that courage and commitment into a career. AB 2483 balances accountability with opportunity, strengthening our fire response and building safer, more inclusive communities.”
AB 2483 does not grant automatic employment, preference points, or shortcuts around required qualifications. Instead, it establishes a transparent framework to ensure that eligible individuals can access the certifications and next steps necessary to compete for entry-level positions, consistent with existing professional standards.
As California faces longer and more destructive fire seasons, AB 2483 represents a pragmatic solution to expand the trained wildfire workforce, improve reentry outcomes, and honor the service of those who have already stood on the front lines.
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The Forestry and Fire Recruitment Program (FFRP) is a nonprofit organization that provides career support to formerly incarcerated firefighters and those currently incarcerated in California’s Conservation Camps, who are interested in careers in the Wildland and Forestry sector. FFRP was developed in direct response to the growing need for wildfire-related personnel. Our mission is to increase wildfire personnel from non-traditional and underrepresented communities, providing them the training, skills, resources, and experience needed to secure gainful employment. www.forestryfirerp.org
The Michelson Center for Public Policy (MCPP) is a 501(c)(4) organization advancing legislative change through strategic collaboration with policymakers, advocacy organizations, and civic leaders. Focused on education, equity, justice, medical research, and animal welfare, MCPP complements the work of Michelson Philanthropies through bold, effective advocacy. Learn more at www.michelsonpolicy.org.
Prosecutors Alliance Action brings together the voices of prosecutors, victim advocates, and allies to advocate for prosecutorial reform and policy solutions that advance long-term safety and well-being in all communities. For more information, visit www.prosecutorsallianceaction.org.