Bill > HB1969

This bill establishes a new law enforcement aviation support grant program administered by the state department, designed to provide financial assistance to local law enforcement rotary wing (helicopter) aviation support units. The program will distribute funds in two main ways: first, 50% of appropriated funds will be equally distributed to recognized aviation support units to cover operational expenses like pilot and crew costs, aircraft maintenance, upgrades, insurance, fuel, and training; second, the remaining funds will be made available to reimburse units for search and rescue mission and training costs, including fuel, maintenance, and pilot expenses (excluding depreciation costs). To be eligible, these aviation support units must be willing to assist any jurisdiction in the state when an aircraft is available, without charging a fee (though refueling is not considered a financial obligation). A statewide association of law enforcement executives will help identify and recognize qualifying units. The bill stipulates that the funding must supplement, not replace, existing local funding for aviation support. If specific funding is not allocated in the state's omnibus appropriations act by June 30, 2025, the entire act becomes null and void. Any remaining funds at the end of the fiscal year will be awarded to the Washington State Patrol's aviation section.