S.Res.247 - Designating May 2025 as National Wildfire Preparedness Month. (119th Congress)
Summary
Senate Resolution 247 designates May 2025 as "National Wildfire Preparedness Month." The resolution aims to increase awareness of wildfire threats and promote preparedness at various levels of government and within communities. It acknowledges the increasing scale and severity of wildfires, their expanding geographic reach, and the significant costs associated with suppression and damage.
Expected Effects
The resolution's designation of a National Wildfire Preparedness Month is primarily symbolic. It will likely lead to increased public awareness campaigns and educational initiatives focused on wildfire prevention and mitigation. These efforts could encourage communities and individuals to take proactive measures to reduce wildfire risks.
Potential Benefits
- Increased public awareness of wildfire risks and preventative measures.
- Promotion of educational initiatives and community programming related to wildfire preparedness.
- Encouragement of proactive planning, mitigation, and risk reduction efforts at the Federal, State, local, and Tribal levels.
- Support for resources that help communities take preventative measures, such as home hardening and land management.
- Potential reduction in human-caused wildfires through increased awareness and responsible behavior.
Potential Disadvantages
- The resolution itself does not allocate any funding or resources, so its impact depends on subsequent actions and appropriations.
- Increased awareness may cause anxiety or concern in communities at risk of wildfires.
- The effectiveness of preparedness measures depends on individual and community participation, which may vary.
- The resolution does not address the underlying causes of increased wildfire risk, such as climate change and forest management practices.
- Focusing on individual preparedness may shift responsibility away from government and industry.
Constitutional Alignment
The resolution aligns with the Constitution's general welfare clause, as it promotes public safety and well-being by addressing the threat of wildfires. While the Constitution does not explicitly mention wildfire preparedness, the resolution falls within the scope of Congress's implied powers to address national issues. The resolution does not infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
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).