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HR 471

Fix Our Forests Act

119th Congress Introduced by Mark Amodei and 52 co-sponsors

The Fix Our Forests Act enhances wildfire risk management, boosts community resilience, and supports local restoration efforts to protect vulnerable areas and firefighters.

Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Subcommittee on Conservation, Forestry, Natural Resources, and Biotechnology. Hearings held. With printed Hearing: S.Hrg. 119-27.
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Bill Summary · HR 471

Summary of HR 471 - Fix Our Forests Act

Overview

The Fix Our Forests Act (HR 471) was introduced in the House of Representatives on January 16, 2025. The bill aims to address the growing risks of wildfires and improve forest health through a series of strategic initiatives and reforms. It is currently under consideration by the Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, specifically within the Subcommittee on Conservation, Forestry, Natural Resources, and Biotechnology.

Main Purpose and Intent

The primary intent of the Fix Our Forests Act is to enhance forest management practices, reduce wildfire risks, and promote community resilience in areas vulnerable to wildfires. The bill seeks to implement collaborative approaches to forest restoration and management, ensuring that local communities, landowners, and federal agencies work together effectively.

Key Provisions

The bill is organized into several titles, each addressing different aspects of forest management and wildfire risk reduction:

Title I: Landscape-Scale Restoration

  • Subtitle A: Addressing Emergency Wildfire Risks

    • Designation of fireshed management areas to prioritize wildfire risk reduction.
    • Establishment of a fireshed center and a fireshed registry for better coordination.
    • Implementation of emergency fireshed management strategies.

  • Subtitle B: Collaborative Tools for Forest Health

    • Modifications to good neighbor agreements to enhance revenue and payments.
    • Introduction of intra-agency strike teams for rapid response.
    • Promotion of locally-led restoration initiatives and partnerships.

  • Subtitle C: Litigation Reform

    • Introduction of commonsense litigation reforms to streamline forest management processes.

Title II: Protecting Communities

  • Establishment of a community wildfire risk reduction program to support local efforts.
  • Creation of a community wildfire defense research program to develop innovative solutions.
  • Provisions for vegetation management and inspections related to electric utility rights-of-way.

Title III: Transparency, Technology, and Partnerships

  • Promotion of biochar innovations and partnerships for wildfire technology deployment.
  • Mandated studies on hazardous fuels reduction and pine beetle infestations.

Title IV: Casualty Assistance for Firefighters

  • Establishment of a Wildland Fire Management Casualty Assistance Program to support firefighters and their families in case of injury or death.

Who Would Be Affected

The Fix Our Forests Act would impact:
- Local communities in wildfire-prone areas, enhancing their preparedness and resilience.
- Federal and state agencies involved in forest management and wildfire response.
- Private landowners and stakeholders engaged in forest restoration and management efforts.
- Firefighters and emergency responders through improved support systems.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill has passed the House with a vote of 279 - 141 and is currently being reviewed by the Senate.
  • Hearings have been held by the Subcommittee on Conservation, Forestry, Natural Resources, and Biotechnology, indicating ongoing discussions and potential amendments.

Conclusion

The Fix Our Forests Act represents a comprehensive approach to addressing the challenges posed by wildfires and forest health. By fostering collaboration among various stakeholders and implementing targeted strategies, the bill aims to create safer, healthier forest ecosystems and protect communities at risk.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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