Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress Senate Bill SB4628

Introduced
6/20/24  

Caption

EMBER Act Enhancing Mitigation and Building Effective Resilience Act

Impact

The bill will modify existing laws and introduce new frameworks that grant the Secretary of Agriculture, the Secretary of the Interior, and FEMA the authority to reduce or waive state and local matching funds for wildfire projects. This modification aims to streamline funding processes and increase accessibility for smaller jurisdictions that may struggle to meet cost-sharing requirements. Additionally, the bill emphasizes the need for assessments of public health impacts from wildfires, requiring regular reports and updates on wildfire mitigation efforts and community needs.

Summary

Senate Bill 4628, also known as the EMEMBER Act, aims to enhance wildfire mitigation, management, and recovery efforts across the United States. The bill proposes various measures to improve federal, state, and local coordination in wildfire management, focusing on proactive measures to reduce wildfire risks and effectively manage post-fire recovery. One of its key components is the establishment of programs that empower Indian Tribes to take part in wildfire response and management, marking a significant step towards inclusivity in federal policy.

Contention

While the bill has garnered support for addressing critical gaps in wildfire management, there are points of contention regarding the funding mechanisms and the balance of authority between federal and local governments. Some critics argue that reducing local oversight may undermine community-specific solutions to wildfire management. Additionally, the inclusion of Indian Tribes in the management process is a double-edged sword, as it requires careful execution to ensure that tribal interests and traditional knowledge are respected and integrated into broader federal strategies.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

US HB8566

MEGOBARI Act Mobilizing and Enhancing Georgia’s Options for Building Accountability, Resilience, and Independence Act

US SB868

MEGOBARI Act Mobilizing and Enhancing Georgia’s Options for Building Accountability, Resilience, and Independence Act

US HB36

MEGOBARI Act Mobilizing and Enhancing Georgia’s Options for Building Accountability, Resilience, and Independence Act

US SB4895

GRID Assistance Act Grid Resilience Improvement through Dedicated Assistance Act

US HB7849

Disaster Resiliency and Coverage Act of 2024

US SB4752

SAFE Act Safeguarding America's Future and Environment Act

US SB4800

Waterfront Community Revitalization and Resiliency Act of 2024

US HB9120

SAFE Act Safeguarding America’s Future and Environment Act

US HB3553

BRUSH Fires Act Building Resiliency and Understanding of Shrublands to Halt Fires Act

US HB5473

Promoting Resilient Buildings Act of 2024

Similar Bills

US SB2039

Wildfire Risk Evaluation Act

US HB3924

Wildfire Risk Evaluation Act

US HB9704

Wildfire Risk Evaluation Act

US HB435

Direct Hire To Fight Fires

US SB135

Wildland Firefighter Paycheck Protection Act of 2025

US HB8656

Modernizing Wildfire Safety and Prevention Act of 2024

US HB1923

Modernizing Wildfire Safety and Prevention Act of 2025

US SB2038

Wildfire Coordination Act