Bill > HR345

This bill establishes standardized procedures for fire suppression cost share agreements between federal agencies and local fire departments. Specifically, within one year of enactment, the Secretaries of Agriculture, Interior, Homeland Security, and Defense must create standard operating procedures for how and when local fire departments get reimbursed for fire suppression services. The bill requires these agencies to review existing agreements and modify them to ensure they are aligned with cooperative fire protection agreements. The new procedures will mandate that federal agencies reimburse local fire departments for their services after they submit invoices following established cost settlement procedures. Congress expresses its preference that these reimbursements should be made as soon as possible after fire suppression occurs, and no later than one year afterward. The goal of this legislation is to create more consistent and timely payment processes for local fire departments that provide critical fire suppression services in collaboration with federal agencies, particularly in areas involving multiple jurisdictions or federal lands.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/345/all-info