New law establishes Civil Air Patrol as official division within Washington Military Department

New law establishes Civil Air Patrol as official division within Washington Military Department

CAMP MURRAY, Wash. Washington state has taken a significant step to strengthen its disaster response framework, formally establishing the Washington Wing of the Civil Air Patrol (CAP) as a division within the Washington Military Department (WMD).

"As a former cadet, I'm especially excited to welcome the Civil Air Patrol into a closer partnership with the Washington Military Department," said Maj. Gen. Gent Welsh, the director of the WMD and the state's adjutant general. "This is a natural fit that strengthens both organizations. It enhances our ability to serve communities in times of need while continuing to invest in the development of future leaders."

Earlier this month, Gov. Bob Ferguson signed Senate Bill 6046, which integrates CAP into the state's emergency response structure, providing faster and more coordinated access to its aviation assets and trained volunteer force. The legislation, introduced by Sen. Keith Wagoner from Washington's 39th legislative district, received unanimous support in the Senate and passed the House with strong bipartisan backing.

Col. Sid Wiggs, commander of the Washington Wing of the Civil Air Patrol, said the change formalizes long-standing partnerships across the state.

"This legislation reflects the way we already work together and provides clearer alignment moving forward," Wiggs said. "It strengthens coordination with our partners and ensures we are well-positioned to support state, local, and tribal agencies when called upon."

Washington's CAP Wing brings a substantial volunteer force and aviation capability to this partnership. The organization includes 26 squadrons and nearly 2,000 members statewide, with trained personnel such as pilots, mission observers and scanners, and specialized roles including airborne photographers and small unmanned aircraft system (sUAS) operators. Its fleet includes 13 aircraft and five sUAS platforms used for aerial imagery and assessment.

With the creation of a dedicated division, emergency managers expect enhanced response times for search and rescue operations, disaster reconnaissance, and aerial damage assessments. The new law enables the governor to activate CAP personnel under state active duty for missions supporting state, local, and tribal agencies, if necessary.

"This relationship enables better coordination before, during, and after disasters," said Robert Ezelle, director of the state's Emergency Management Division. "Incorporating the Civil Air Patrol into the Washington Military Department provides tangible benefits to communities, particularly as resources are stretched across all levels of government."

Beyond emergency response, the law reinforces CAP's role in youth development. Through its cadet program, the organization provides leadership training, aerospace education, and character development opportunities for young people across the state.

The legislation also enhances operational support for CAP by providing greater access to National Guard facilities and administrative resources, while strengthening coordination with state emergency management partners.

Importantly, the law does not alter CAP's federal status or mission. The organization will continue to operate under its existing federal authorities while gaining expanded ability to support state-directed missions more efficiently.

For more information about the Washington Wing of the Civil Air Patrol, visit: Home | Washington Wing, Civil Air Patrol