Committee approves bill creating wildfire mitigation authority funded by redirected insurance premium taxes

The House Committee on Land, Agriculture and Rural Affairs on Feb. 13 returned House Bill 2292 as amended with a due-pass recommendation, advancing a proposal to establish a statewide wildfire mitigation authority and fund under the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management.

Committee staff explained that the Diaz amendment (dated 02/13/2026) changes the name to the Wildfire Mitigation and Risk Reduction Authority and Fund, sets rules for distributions, stipulates administrative expenses cannot exceed 8% of monies in the fund, and gives preference for awards to single-family and multi-family dwelling properties.

Jeronimo Vasquez, vice chair of the Coconino County Board of Supervisors, urged passage in strong terms, saying HB 2292 would provide "a proactive, coordinated, and data driven approach to reduce these risks" and help stabilize insurance costs and protect property. Jacob Embnet representing the County Supervisors Association said the bill would divert a portion of existing insurance premium tax receipts and noted the proposal contemplates an annual diversion of $20,000,000; he also said premium tax revenues grew by about $100,000,000 from FY '24 to '25.

Members questioned funding mechanics; staff and witnesses clarified the measure redirects existing insurance premium tax revenue rather than imposing a new tax. The committee adopted the DS amendment by voice vote and then approved the bill as amended by roll call. The chair announced the result as eight ayes; the committee recorded the bill as having a due-pass recommendation.