As wildfires continue to wreak havoc in Australia, local lawmakers are introducing a bill to fight and prevent fires here at home in Washington.
The measure would fund $125 million for protecting forests and battling severe wildfires every two years.
Supporters say the proposed measure would put more boots on the ground to respond to fires faster across the state.
When asked if there is a threat for wildfires on the west side of the Cascades, Puget Sound Fire Captain Joe Root said yes, there is a risk.
"Hot, dry summers, people building into areas they haven’t built before, limited access to infrastructure. It is a risk on the west side," Root said.
The bill intends to raise taxes on homeowner’s insurance by $1 to $2 per month in order to contribute the $125 million to the firefighting efforts every two years.