UNITED STATES

U.S. Sens. Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), John Curtis (R-Utah), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), John Boozman (R-Ark.), and Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), members of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, introduced the bipartisan Wildfire Emissions Prevention Act (WEPA) of 2026.

WEPA would make it easier for states and communities to use prescribed fires to prevent wildfire emissions, protect ecosystems and wildlife habitats, and make American forests and communities safer, healthier, and cleaner. The bill also promotes the efficient use of state air quality resources and provides certainty that states will not be penalized for taking action to prevent wildfires.

“We know prescribed burns help prevent catastrophic wildfires and save lives,” Padilla said. “This bipartisan bill cuts red tape so California and the whole country can make greater use of this proven, cost-effective tool to protect communities before the next major wildfire. It’s a commonsense step that prioritizes prevention instead of waiting to respond after disaster strikes.”

Specifically, WEPA would make it easier for states and communities to use prescribed fire to prevent wildfire emissions; provide certainty that states won’t be penalized for taking action to prevent wildfires; promote the efficient use of state air quality resources; and make forests and communities safer, healthier, and cleaner.

The bill text is available here.

~ Sen. Alex Padilla press release