Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress House Bill HB4584

Introduced
7/12/23  
Refer
7/12/23  

Caption

National Wildland Fire Risk Reduction Program Act

Impact

The implications of HB4584 on state laws and local jurisdictions are substantial. By prioritizing federal coordination, the bill seeks to create a unified approach to wildland fire management. This could lead to standardized regulations and practices across states and federal agencies, which may help manage the resources and responses to wildfires more effectively. However, as it emphasizes federal oversight, it could also raise concerns about state autonomy in handling localized fire risks and policies tailored to specific regional needs.

Summary

House Bill 4584, titled the 'National Wildland Fire Risk Reduction Program Act', aims to enhance federal efforts in reducing the risks associated with wildland fires. The bill mandates the establishment of a comprehensive national program led by the President, designed to significantly decrease the loss of life and property from wildland fires through targeted research, development of preventive measures, and improved understanding of fire risks, particularly in vulnerable communities. The program focuses on assessing fire environments, developing science-based preventative measures, and understanding the impacts of climate change on fire risk.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB4584 include discussions on the potential federal overreach into state disaster management practices. While advocates argue that a coordinated federal approach is essential for effective wildfire management, opponents may express concerns that it could undermine local decision-making and preparedness efforts. This could result in community-level challenges in managing unique fire risks or insufficient responsiveness to local conditions, particularly in rural or less populated areas.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

US SB647

Regional Leadership in Wildland Fire Research Act of 2025

US SB306

Fire Ready Nation Act of 2025This bill provides statutory authority for existing wildfire response services of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), and establishes new programs and collaborative efforts to improve fire forecasting and readiness.  Specifically, in addition to other efforts, the bill directs NOAA to establish a coordinated fire weather services program to support readiness for and responsiveness to wildfires, fire weather, smoke, post-fire flooding and debris, and related hazards;develop a digital presence to promote access to and use of the services, tools, data, and information produced by the fire weather services program;establish a fire weather test bed to facilitate the evaluation and implementation of new capabilities, including through research and development on the use of uncrewed aircraft systems (commonly known as drones) to improve data collection;conduct an annual assessment after the close of fire weather season to investigate data gaps and update systems as needed;evaluate and update, as appropriate, the Automated Surface Observing System (the primary surface weather network in the United States) and the system used to rate the risk of wildfire; andestablish an Incident Meteorologist Service within the National Weather Service to provide on-site support before, during, and after significant weather-related events.The bill also exempts federal wildland firefighters, fire management response officials, and accompanying incident meteorologists and management teams from certain premium pay limitations. Finally, the bill directs the Government Accountability Office to evaluate and report on the implementation of the fire weather services program, among other topics. 

US SB320

National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program Reauthorization Act of 2025

US SB2015

National Prescribed Fire Act of 2025

US HB3168

National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program Reauthorization Act of 2025

US HB743

Tim’s Act Tim Hart Wildland Firefighter Classification and Pay Parity Act

US SB279

Tim’s Act Tim Hart Wildland Firefighter Classification and Pay Parity Act

US HB471

Fix Our Forests Act

US HB4075

Fire Weather Development Act of 2025

US HB1943

Wildland Firefighter Paycheck Protection Act of 2025

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.