Wildfire Response Improvement Act

This proposal, called the Wildfire Response Improvement Act, aims to make it easier for communities to prepare for and recover from wildfires. It tells FEMA to let certain safety work—like assessments and emergency stabilization—qualify for help even if it happens outside the official “incident period” of a fire, so communities aren’t boxed in by timing rules . It also directs FEMA to add clear guidance for wildfire recovery, including debris removal, emergency protective steps, and dealing with contaminated drinking water after a fire .

The bill requires FEMA to review and update how it decides which wildfire prevention projects are cost‑effective. The review must consider common actions like creating defensible space, nature‑based solutions, vegetation management, reducing smoke health harms, and protecting water systems. FEMA must then update its criteria and prioritize projects accordingly, with changes due within one year of the law taking effect .

• Who is affected: Communities at risk of wildfire; local and state agencies seeking FEMA help; residents facing smoke and water quality issues after fires .
• What changes: FEMA can support safety work beyond the strict fire timeline; recovery guidance will cover debris, emergency measures, and drinking water toxicity; cost‑effectiveness rules for prevention projects will be updated and prioritized using clearer standards .
• When: FEMA must make these updates within one year of the law’s enactment.