Search people, articles, bills, and more
The House passed the 'Fix Our Forests Act,' a bipartisan bill intended to speed up wildfire prevention efforts on federal and Tribal lands, by a vote of 279 to 141.
H.R. 471, known as the 'Fix Our Forests Act,' aims to reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfires by changing how federal and Tribal lands are managed. The bill proposes to streamline environmental reviews for projects like tree thinning and prescribed burns, particularly in high-risk zones called 'fireshed management areas.' It also includes support for utility line maintenance and a new casualty assistance program for wildland firefighters. This was a 'passage' vote, which is the final step for a bill in the House of Representatives. To pass, the bill required a simple majority of the members who were present and voting. By passing this vote, the House has officially approved the legislation and moved it forward in the lawmaking process. The bill passed with a bipartisan majority, as 35 Democrats joined a unanimous Republican caucus in support. While supporters argue the bill is necessary to prevent destructive fires, many opposing Democrats expressed concern that it would reduce environmental oversight and public input. The legislation now moves to the Senate for further consideration.
The bill moves to the Senate for committee review and a potential floor vote.
OPEN BILL →Why it matters. Severe wildfires have become a national crisis; this bill represents a major shift toward more active and faster forest management to address that threat.
Who’s affected. Residents in fire-prone areas: Would see increased activity in nearby forests meant to reduce fire risks to their communities. · Environmental advocacy groups: May face reduced opportunities for public comment and legal challenges regarding forest projects. · Wildland firefighters: Would gain access to a new casualty assistance program for injuries sustained in the line of duty.
Democrats. A large majority of Democrats opposed the bill, citing concerns over environmental review changes, though 35 members voted in favor.
Republicans. Republicans voted unanimously to pass the legislation.
On Passage
Jan 23, 2025
The House passed the 'Fix Our Forests Act,' a bipartisan bill intended to speed up wildfire prevention efforts on federal and Tribal lands, by a vote of 279 to 141.
This was the final vote in the House to approve the bill. Because it received more 'yes' than 'no' votes, the House has officially passed the measure.
The bill moves to the Senate for committee review and a potential floor vote.
Severe wildfires have become a national crisis; this bill represents a major shift toward more active and faster forest management to address that threat.
The bill passed with a bipartisan majority, driven by unanimous Republican support and a small group of 35 Democrats who crossed party lines.
A large majority of Democrats opposed the bill, citing concerns over environmental review changes, though 35 members voted in favor.
Republicans voted unanimously to pass the legislation.
One independent member voted in favor of the bill.