Senator Gaines on 'fire tax'

Earlier this month, the Board of Forestry and Fire Protection (Board) adopted a third set of amended emergency “State Responsibility Area” fire fee regulations.

I reported to you in December that the Board had adopted the regulations at that time, but they were withdrawn to make substantive changes to address some of the Legislative Analyst Office’s concerns.
The state will still levy $150 on all habitable structures served by CalFire; however, the newly adopted regulations remove non–residential buildings from the definition of habitable structure and delete the proposed $25 charge per additional dwelling unit, and also slightly clarify the definition of dwelling unit. Residents who live within the jurisdiction of another fire agency will still receive a $35 discount — making the fee $115.

I maintain my position that this “fee” is unfair to the rural citizens of northern California. Instead of levying what I consider an illegal tax on the many rural property owners who have already made provisions for their safety, the Board should explore all alternate means of meeting budget challenges.
I will continue to fight it every way I can as a Senator and private citizen. As always, my office will be closely watching this issue and keeping you updated on any new developments.