Specifically, Assembly Bill 1202 would require that the State Fire Prevention Fees (often called the “Cal Fire Fee” or “SRA fee”) charged to homeowners located in the State Responsibility Area (SRA) be reduced by the amount, if any, paid to a local fire protection district for fire prevention services.
Approximately 95% of structures subject to the SRA fee are also within a local fire protection district. Some districts may levy special taxes for fire prevention services, resulting in property owners paying for these services—both to their local fire districts and to the State.
“Regardless of the legal challenges surrounding the SRA fee, its clear intent was to fund prevention activities to mitigate the risk of wildfires caused by structures within the SRA. Several economically-challenged communities within the 42nd District are within both the SRA and a local fire district, and those fire districts may choose to charge for and provide fire prevention services at the local level.
“While the fight surrounding the SRA fee will continue, the scope of this bill is to provide economic relief for property owners that would otherwise pay twice for the same service,” said Assemblyman Mayes.
Assemblyman Chad Mayes is the former Mayor of Yucca Valley and most recently served as Chief of Staff to the Chair of the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors. Mayes serves as the Chief Republican Whip on the Floor of the State Assembly.
