California lawmakers have unanimously approved a plan to raise the wages of incarcerated firefighters to the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour while they are assigned to active fires. This marks a significant increase from their current pay of approximately $1 per hour. The legislation, Assembly Bill 247, authored by Assemblymember Isaac Bryan, aims to recognize the dangerous and vital work these inmates perform, such as clearing brush and digging fire lines during wildfires.
The bill, which could take effect immediately if signed by Governor Gavin Newsom, follows a January fire in Los Angeles County where more than 1,100 incarcerated firefighters earned less than $30 per day. According to the Los Angeles Times, the state budget already includes $10 million for this wage increase.
Working in one of California’s 35 minimum-security fire camps is a voluntary job that allows inmates to work outside prison walls and earn time off their sentences. These firefighters do not handle hoses but perform essential tasks to support firefighting efforts. The plan has received bipartisan support, with Assemblymember Heath Flora emphasizing its role in anti-recidivism efforts and providing meaningful work.
Despite the widespread support, the California State Sheriffs’ Association has expressed concerns about the fiscal impact on counties. However, CalMatters reports that the wage increase is seen as a long-overdue acknowledgment of the contributions of incarcerated firefighters. The number of inmates in these roles has decreased significantly since 2005, and there are ongoing efforts to improve their working conditions and post-release employment opportunities.
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