Encouraging Controlled Burns Bill

Official: National Prescribed Fire Act of 2025

IntroducedJune 10, 2025

Public Lands and Natural ResourcesCongressional oversightGovernment studies and investigationsEnvironmental assessment, monitoring, researchHazardous wastes and toxic substancesEmployment and training programsEmployee hiringGovernment employee pay, benefits, personnel managementIntergovernmental relationsVeterans' education, employment, rehabilitationFirst responders and emergency personnelCivil actions and liabilityFiresAir qualityWomen's employmentEnvironmental healthMinority employmentTemporary and part-time employment

Why This Matters

This bill encourages the use of controlled fires on federal land to manage forests better and support Indigenous burning practices. It aims to reduce wildfire risks and improve land health.

If you live near federal forests, this bill could lead to safer and healthier woodlands in your area.

Affects: This bill affects Indigenous tribes and communities living near federal lands.

Summary

National Prescribed Fire Act of 2025This bill directs the Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Department of the Interior to increase the number and size of prescribed fires conducted on federal lands. For 10 years, Interior and USDA must annually conduct prescribed fires on federal land so that the total acreage where prescribed fires are conducted is 10% greater than the previous fiscal year. Interior and USDA must establish a collaborative prescribed fire program to provide financial assistance to eligible entities to conduct prescribed fires in priority landscapes. Interior and USDA may enter into cooperative agreements or contracts with states, Indian tribes, counties, municipal governments, fire districts, nongovernmental organizations, or private entities to coordinate prescribed fires on federal land. Interior and USDA must expand employment opportunities for prescribed fire practitioners, including by expanding hazard pay, supporting underrepresented groups, and establishing additional training centers. To address the public health and safety risk of the expanded use of prescribed fire, the Environmental Protection Agency must coordinate with state, tribal, and local air quality agencies to support the environmental review of wildland fires.