Wildfire Emergency Preparedness Act of 2025
Summary
The Wildfire Emergency Preparedness Act of 2025 aims to enhance the readiness of structural firefighters in responding to wildfires and wildland-urban interface fires. It emphasizes improved coordination among firefighting teams at all governmental levels. The Act establishes a national training plan and grant program under the United States Forest Service.
Expected Effects
The Act will likely lead to better-trained firefighters and improved coordination during wildfire events. A new Under Secretary of Agriculture for Fire Coordination position will be created. Furthermore, the bill promotes research into firefighter health and safety, particularly concerning respiratory health and exposure to harmful substances.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced training for structural firefighters in wildfire response.
- Improved coordination among federal, state, and local firefighting teams.
- Increased research into firefighter health and safety, including mental health.
- Potential for reduced property damage and loss of life from wildfires.
- Support for emergency medical services through grants to nonaffiliated EMS organizations.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased government spending through grants and new positions.
- Possible bureaucratic inefficiencies in establishing and implementing new programs.
- Risk of grants being awarded to less effective organizations.
- Potential delays in implementation due to the time required to establish the training plan and Under Secretary position.
- Possible overlap or duplication of efforts with existing wildfire management programs.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The Act appears to align with the Constitution's general welfare clause (Preamble). It also falls under Congress's power to regulate interstate commerce (Article I, Section 8), as wildfires often cross state lines and impact national resources. The establishment of the Under Secretary position is within the powers of the Executive branch, with Senate approval (Article II, Section 2).
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).