Bill > SB6046

This bill establishes the Washington division of civil air patrol as a formal part of the Washington military department, integrating its volunteer members into the state's structure. The commanding officer of the Washington wing of the Civil Air Patrol (CAP), a federally chartered organization composed of volunteers who assist in non-military air support and emergency services, will lead this new state division. This division will be available for active state service when called upon by the governor and will consist of commissioned officers, warrant officers, enlisted personnel, and cadets. The Washington division is authorized to collaborate with state agencies, political subdivisions, and federally recognized tribes on various missions, including 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 can hire staff and make necessary expenditures within appropriations to fulfill its duties. Importantly, this act does not alter the existing operations, rights, or duties of the Washington wing of the Civil Air Patrol or its ability to cooperate with the federal government.