S.2038 - Wildfire Coordination Act (119th Congress)
Summary
S.2038, the Wildfire Coordination Act, directs the Secretary of the Interior to establish a Wildfire Science and Technology Advisory Board. This board will coordinate wildfire research within the Federal Government, translate research into practical applications, and disseminate information to relevant stakeholders. The board will consist of members from various federal agencies, state, local, and tribal governments, and private-sector entities.
Expected Effects
The Act aims to improve the federal government's ability to address wildfires by fostering collaboration and translating research into actionable strategies. This should lead to better wildfire management, reduced risks to communities, and improved resource allocation. The establishment of a permanent advisory committee ensures sustained focus and coordination on wildfire-related issues.
Potential Benefits
- Improved coordination of wildfire research across federal agencies.
- Enhanced translation of research findings into practical applications for wildfire management.
- Better dissemination of information and best practices to stakeholders.
- Inclusion of diverse perspectives from federal, state, local, tribal, and private-sector entities.
- Prioritization of wildfire research projects for operationalization.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for bureaucratic inefficiencies due to the large size of the advisory board.
- Risk of overlapping responsibilities with existing wildfire management agencies.
- Dependence on appropriations, which may fluctuate and impact the board's effectiveness.
- Possible delays in implementation due to the need to establish the board and its procedures.
- The act does not address the root causes of wildfires, such as climate change or land management practices.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution, particularly the General Welfare Clause (Preamble), as it aims to protect communities and resources from wildfires. Congress has the power to enact legislation necessary and proper for executing its enumerated powers (Article I, Section 8), which can include addressing national issues like wildfire management. The establishment of an advisory board falls within the scope of executive branch functions, overseen by the Secretary of the Interior.
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).