Bill > HR1393

This bill directs the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Administrator to undertake several important actions to improve wildfire response and mitigation policies. The bill requires FEMA to recommend regulations within one year to make emergency stabilization and assessment efforts eligible for the Fire Management Assistance Program, regardless of the incident period of a declared fire. FEMA must also update its Public Assistance Program and Policy Guide to include specific guidance on wildfire recovery challenges, such as debris removal, emergency protective measures, and addressing drinking water toxicity resulting from wildfires. A key component of the bill is a comprehensive review of criteria for evaluating the cost-effectiveness of wildfire mitigation projects, which will examine pre-calculated benefits for defensible space projects, nature-based infrastructure, vegetation management, public health impacts of wildfire smoke, and effects on water infrastructure. Following this review, FEMA must issue updated guidance within one year that revises the criteria for evaluating mitigation project cost-effectiveness and prioritizes projects based on the new assessment. The bill, known as the "Wildfire Response Improvement Act," aims to enhance FEMA's approach to wildfire preparedness, response, and recovery by creating more comprehensive and nuanced evaluation methods.

Business and Industry, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/1393/all-info