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Emergency Wildfire Act of 2023
12/15/2023, 3:58 PM
Summary of Bill HR 3439
One of the key provisions of the bill is the allocation of funds for wildfire prevention efforts, such as forest management and controlled burns. This is aimed at reducing the fuel load in forests and minimizing the risk of wildfires spreading out of control. Additionally, the bill includes provisions for increasing funding for firefighting efforts, including the purchase of new equipment and the hiring of additional personnel.
The Emergency Wildfire Act of 2023 also includes measures to support communities affected by wildfires, such as providing financial assistance for rebuilding homes and infrastructure. The bill aims to streamline the process for accessing federal aid and ensure that resources are distributed efficiently to those in need. Overall, the Emergency Wildfire Act of 2023 is a comprehensive piece of legislation that seeks to address the growing threat of wildfires in the US. By providing funding for prevention and firefighting efforts, as well as support for affected communities, the bill aims to better prepare the country for future wildfire seasons and mitigate the impact of these natural disasters.
Congressional Summary of HR 3439
Wildfire Emergency Act of 2023
This bill provides for programs and activities in support of forest restoration, wildfire mitigation, and energy resilience.
The Department of Agriculture (USDA) shall establish a pilot program under which it may enter into conservation finance agreements with public or private persons to increase the pace and scale of forest restoration and land management projects across the National Forest System.
The bill provides for an increased federal cost share for conservation finance projects that would primarily benefit one or more low-income communities and for which the nonfederal entities involved cannot meet a specified cost share requirement.
The Department of Energy shall establish a program to support critical facilities (e.g., hospitals), including by improving the energy resilience and power needs of critical facilities through the development and use of microgrids, renewable energy, energy efficiency, reduced electricity demand, and on-site storage.
The bill expands the weatherization assistance program to support the use of fire-resistant materials.
The bill directs USDA and the Department of the Interior to take actions to improve the detection and monitoring of wildfires.
USDA and Interior shall establish one or more centers in western states to train individuals in methods relevant to the mitigation of wildfire risk.
USDA shall establish a competitive grant program to support workforce development in forestry and fire management.
USDA may issue grants to increase community capacity for land stewardship activities.
