Barbara Boxer: “southern California has recently experienced the devastating impacts of wildfire first-hand. More than 750,000 acres…”

“southern California has recently experienced the devastating impacts of wildfire first-hand. More than 750,000 acres burned, and 24 people died. We have seen how important it is to take the appropriate steps to protect our vulnerable communities from the threat of wildfire, and that is why I am supporting this bill. The bill before us invests in preventing wildfires, rather than just trying to fight them after the fact. Each year, $760 million is authorized for wildfire prevention projects, such as tree and brush removal, thinning, and prescribed burning. In total, the bill would allow treatment of 20 million acres. Priority is given to projects that protect communities and watersheds, and at least 50 percent of the funds must be used near at-risk communities. The other 50 percent will be spent on projects near municipal water supply systems and on lands infested with disease or insects. This is a good start at preventing fires. I do, however, have to mention my deep disappointment with the House Republican conferees for removing my amendment to help firefighters who battle the biggest fires. I am almost speechless that the House Republicans would turn their backs on our brave firefighters. My amendment, which passed the Senate 94 to 3, would have required long-term health monitoring of firefighters who fought fires in a Federal disaster area.”