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SB2157Introduced in the Senate

Relating To Search And Rescue.

IntroducedSenate Water, Land, and Agriculture

Introduced by Tim Richards, District 4

What does this bill do?

Plain-English breakdown

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Official description

Establishes the Search and Rescue Special Fund. Requires government entities to seek reimbursement for all or a portion of search or rescue expenses when the person or entity knowingly enters state, county, or private property, knowingly enters a hiking trail that is closed to the public, or violates applicable laws, provided that the closure is posted by sign, barricade, or other device that gives reasonable notice of the closure. Requires an administrative appeal hearing for an individual subject to cost reimbursement to contest the assessment. Requires counties and the State Fire Council to adopt ordinances or rules as necessary to pursue reimbursements. Raises the penalty for criminal trespass from a petty misdemeanor to a misdemeanor under certain circumstances. Imposes a fine on a person convicted of criminal trespass onto public parks and recreational grounds. Appropriates funds.

Where it stands

Referred to WLA/PSM/EIG, WAM/JDC.

January 22, 2026

How did lawmakers vote?

No recorded vote is available for this bill yet.

What do people think?

Citizen Voice

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Bill history

  1. Pending Introduction.

  2. Introduced and passed First Reading.

  3. Referred to WLA/PSM/EIG, WAM/JDC.

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