H.R.1923 - Modernizing Wildfire Safety and Prevention Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1923, the Modernizing Wildfire Safety and Prevention Act of 2025, aims to implement recommendations from the Wildland Fire Mitigation and Management Commission's report. The bill addresses workforce development, wildland firefighter support, wildfire smoke and public health, and fire mitigation and technology. It establishes programs such as the Middle Fire Leaders Academy, a wildfire workforce grant program, and a national smoke monitoring and alert system.
Expected Effects
The Act will likely lead to improved training and support for wildland firefighters. It will also improve public health monitoring related to wildfire smoke. Furthermore, it will streamline access to resources for communities affected by wildfires.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced training and certification for wildland fire leaders through the Middle Fire Leaders Academy.
- Increased educational and vocational opportunities in wildfire emergency management through a grant program.
- Improved retirement benefits and job-sharing opportunities for federal wildland firefighters.
- Development of a national smoke monitoring and alert system to protect public health.
- Streamlined access to FEMA programs and other assistance for communities affected by wildfires.
Potential Disadvantages
- The bill authorizes significant appropriations (millions of dollars per year for various programs) which could increase the national debt if not offset by spending cuts or revenue increases.
- The creation of new programs and offices (e.g., Joint Office of the Fire Environment Center) could lead to bureaucratic inefficiencies and overlap with existing agencies.
- Some provisions, such as those related to FEMA program improvements, require further study and guidance, which could delay their implementation.
- The reliance on interagency coordination may create challenges in ensuring effective and timely responses to wildfire events.
- The bill's effectiveness depends on the successful implementation of its various provisions, which may be subject to political and logistical hurdles.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the General Welfare Clause (Article I, Section 8) by aiming to protect public health and safety through wildfire mitigation and management. The establishment of various programs and offices falls within Congress's enumerated powers to provide for the general welfare. The necessary and proper clause may also be invoked as it relates to executing the foregoing powers.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).