AI-assisted analysis based on the official CRS summary. Source version: Feb 11, 2026. Analysis updated: Sep 18, 2026.
01 — The Text
What.
- Directs USDA and Interior to increase prescribed fires on federal lands by 10% annually for 10 years
- Establishes collaborative prescribed fire program to provide financial assistance to states, tribes, counties, municipalities, fire districts, nonprofits, and private entities
- Authorizes USDA and Interior to enter cooperative agreements with various government and non-government entities to coordinate prescribed fires
- Requires expansion of prescribed fire practitioner employment through hazard pay, support for underrepresented groups, and new training centers
- Directs EPA to coordinate with state, tribal, and local air quality agencies on environmental review of wildland fires
02 — The Stakes
So what?
- The 10-year mandate establishes a specific, documented requirement to increase federal prescribed fire acreage; effects on wildfire reduction, ecosystem health, or costs are not quantified in the official summary
- Financial assistance program and cooperative authority create mechanisms for non-federal involvement; specific funding amounts and eligible landscape criteria are not detailed in the summary
- Employment expansion aims to address workforce needs; the extent to which these measures will increase practitioner availability or participation is not specified
- EPA coordination requirement addresses air quality concerns from expanded prescribed fire use; specific regulatory or coordination mechanisms are not detailed in the summary
03 — The Path
Now what?
- Bill introduced in Senate on June 10, 2025, and referred to Committee on Energy and Natural Resources
- Committee ordered favorable reporting with amendment on December 17, 2025
- Committee on Energy and Natural Resources reported bill with substitute amendment on September 17, 2026, without written report
- Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders (Calendar No. 635) on September 17, 2026
Legislative History
Actions.
- Sep 17, 2026 — Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 635.
- Sep 17, 2026 — Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. Reported by Senator Lee with an amendment in the nature of a substitute. Without written report.
- Dec 17, 2025 — Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. Ordered to be reported with an amendment in the nature of a substitute favorably.
- Jun 10, 2025 — Read twice and referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.
- Jun 10, 2025 — Introduced in Senate