After Risking Their Lives on the Frontlines, Incarcerated Firefighters Could Gain a Path to Careers

AB 2483, bill to recognize experience of incarcerated firefighters with certifications needed for firefighting career post-release, passes Senate Natural Resources Committee  

LOS ANGELES—The Senate Natural Resources Committee passed California Assembly Bill 2483, a commonsense bill that would ensure the experience and training of California’s incarcerated firefighters are recognized with the certifications necessary to pursue firefighting careers upon release. 

Authored by Assemblymember Sade Elhawary (D-57), AB 2483 would help break down historic barriers, recognize those risking their lives on the frontlines to protect Californian communities, and strengthen the state’s firefighting workforce.

Statements from AB 2483 Author and Co-Sponsors:

Assemblymember Sade Elhawary: “These are individuals who stepped up to protect our communities during some of the most challenging moments. When they return home, gratitude alone is not enough. We have a responsibility to ensure their training and experience are recognized, and that they have the certifications and opportunities needed to pursue firefighting careers, rebuild their lives, and thrive.” 

Royal Ramey, Co-Founder and CEO of The Forestry and Fire Recruitment Program: “I know firsthand what this bill means because I lived it. After serving as an incarcerated firefighter, I came home with the training and frontline experience to protect communities and reduce wildfire risk, but there was no clear pathway to turn that experience into a career. AB 2483 recognizes the value of the work incarcerated firefighters are already doing, ensures they receive the certifications needed to compete for careers in the fire service, and helps California build the workforce it needs to meet growing wildfire challenges. This is about creating opportunity, strengthening public safety, and making sure proven experience doesn’t go to waste.”

Mayra Lombera, Chief Policy Officer, Michelson Center for Public Policy: “These individuals have already proven they are capable of fighting fires on the frontlines and contributing to California’s firefighting force. AB 2483 ensures their experience, training, and bravery are recognized instead of wasted.”

Cristine Soto DeBerry, Executive Director of Prosecutors Alliance Action: “California urgently needs more firefighters to meet the growing threat of climate-driven wildfires. People returning from incarceration with real firefighting experience should be part of that solution. Opening these pathways provides individuals with the dignity and stability of meaningful employment – ultimately strengthening both public safety and community resilience.”

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Michelson Center for Public Policy (MCPP) is a Los Angeles-based 501(c)(4) nonprofit advocacy organization affiliated with Michelson Philanthropies, a foundation devoted to expanding equity and access across medical research, animal welfare, education, and intellectual property. MCPP advances policy and legislative solutions that support these priorities. In collaboration with policymakers, advocacy organizations, and civic leaders, it works to expand opportunity for underserved communities across California and beyond. Learn more at michelsonpolicy.org.

The Forestry and Fire Recruitment Program (FFRP) is a nonprofit organization that provides career support to formerly incarcerated firefighters and those currently incarcerated in California’s Conservation Camps; who are interested in careers in the Wildland and Forestry sector. FFRP was developed in direct response to the growing need for wildfire-related personnel. Our mission is to increase wildfire personnel from non-traditional and underrepresented communities, providing them the training, skills, resources, and experience needed to secure gainful employment. https://www.forestryfirerp.org/ 

Prosecutors Alliance Action mobilizes prosecutors and voters to fight for a fair and humane justice system rooted in community trust and free from abuses of power.​ For more information, visit www.prosecutorsallianceaction.org.