Wilson Signs Bill Clearing Tests of Firefighting ‘Scooper’ Aircraft

Gov. Pete Wilson has signed into law a bill to allow the state to lease and test two so-called “super scooper” aircraft that can swoop low over lakes and rivers and pick up water to be used to fight fires.

The legislation (AB 2802) authored by Assemblyman Terry B. Friedman (D-Brentwood) passed the Assembly and Senate on 70-3 and 21-17 votes, respectively.

“The fires that raged through Malibu, Laguna Beach and other communities in 1993 burned with incredible speed and intensity,” Friedman said. “It was apparent to all who witnessed the devastation caused by the fires that we must develop new strategies for controlling them.”

Each aircraft has the ability to pick up 1,600 gallons of water at a time to drop on wildfires.

GOVERNOR

Bills Signed

* Parole Hearings: SB 826 by Sen. Bill Leonard (R-Big Bear) to allow the state Board of Prison Terms to delay parole hearings for convicted murderers for up to five years instead of conducting them every two years.

* Sex Offenses: AB 2261 by Sen. Steve Peace (D-Bonita) to broaden the legal definition of habitual sex offender, increase the penalty for the crime, and prevent such offenders from reducing their prison sentences by earning so-called good time.

* Jailhouse Sex: AB 1568 by Assemblywoman Hilda L. Solis (D-El Monte) to make it a misdemeanor for law enforcement personnel to engage in sexual relations with jail inmates.

* Juvenile Crime: AB 2428 by Assemblyman Bob Epple (D-Cerritos) would establish a task force on juvenile crime and juvenile justice to make a report with recommendations to the Legislature by April 15, 1996.

* Attorney Lobbyists: AB 3432 by Assemblyman Jack O’Connell (D-Carpinteria) to authorize cities and counties to require attorneys who are lobbyists to register and disclose their lobbying activities.

* Medical Expenses: SB 1807 by Sen. John R. Lewis (R-Orange) to require judges in divorce cases to clearly define the legal responsibilities of each parent in paying children’s medical expenses, including health insurance coverage.

* Two-Rod Fishing: SB 2115 by Sen. Mike Thompson (D-St. Helena) to authorize the Department of Fish and Game to issue an additional $7.50 fishing stamp to permit fishermen to use a second rod while fishing in inland lakes and reservoirs starting next year.

Readers who wish to communicate with legislators regarding Assembly and Senate bills can write to them at the State Capitol Building, Sacramento, Calif. 95814.

--By Jerry Gillam, Times Staff Writer