Bill > HB2357

This bill establishes the Washington division of civil air patrol (CAP) as a formal part of the Washington Military Department, meaning it will be officially integrated into the state's military structure. The CAP is a federally chartered organization composed of volunteer civilian members who assist in various missions. The bill specifies that the head of the Washington wing of the CAP will lead this new state division, with provisions for an acting head if needed. This division will be available for active state service at the governor's call and will consist of commissioned officers, enlisted personnel, and cadets. The Washington division of CAP is authorized to cooperate with state agencies, political subdivisions, and federally recognized tribes on tasks like cadet training, communications, disaster relief, cybersecurity, and search and rescue, and can enter into agreements for these services, potentially receiving reimbursement for expenses. The director of this division will have the authority to hire staff and make necessary expenditures within appropriated funds. Importantly, this act does not alter the existing operations, rights, powers, duties, or functions of the Washington wing of the CAP, nor does it restrict its cooperation with the federal government.