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Political Playback: California Capitol News You Might Have Missed 

July 15, 2025

California's Legislature is advancing Assembly Bill 247, which would increase hourly pay for incarcerated firefighters from approximately $1 to the federal minimum wage of $7. 25 when working on active wildfires. The bill, authored by Assemblymember Isaac Bryan, aims to provide fairer compensation for inmates who work dangerous, lengthy shifts battling California's devastating fires.

Who is affected

  • Incarcerated firefighters working on the front lines of California's wildfires
  • Inmate firefighter Isaiah Nazari and others serving in conservation camps
  • California counties that would bear increased costs
  • The California State Sheriffs' Association (as an opposing organization)

What action is being taken

  • The California Legislature is moving forward with Assembly Bill 247
  • The Senate Public Safety Committee voted on July 8 to approve the bill
  • The bill is advancing to the Senate Appropriations Committee for further consideration
  • Negotiations have reduced the initially proposed wage from $19 to $7.25 per hour

Why it matters

  • Incarcerated firefighters currently receive only about $1 per hour for dangerous work on active fires
  • These inmates work difficult shifts, sometimes up to 48 hours during wildfires
  • The bill addresses compensation disparities between incarcerated and professional firefighters
  • The proposed change recognizes inmates' "invaluable service during devastating fires" regardless of incarceration status
  • Counties would face increased costs if the bill passes

What's next

  • The bill heads to the Senate Appropriations Committee for further consideration.

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint

Political Playback: California Capitol News You Might Have Missed