H. Rept. 113-198 Read more »

H. Rept. 113-196 Read more »

This week the National Multi-Agency Coordinating Group raised the National Preparedness Level to 5, its highest level indicating high fire activity with increasing threats. The last time the National Preparedness Level was raised to 5 was July 1, 2008 and remained at this highest level for 22 days.  A raised preparedness level indicates a high degree of wildfire activity, a major… Read more »

Last week, NBC Nightly News highlighted the wildfires burning throughout the United States. There are currently 39 fires in 11 states. The map below shows location and proximity of the current fires. This year is on track to be a record year for wildfires. Watch Here:

Reporting H.R. 1526 Out of Committee (Passed by Voice Vote) This bill renews the federal government’s commitment to manage federal forests for the benefit of rural schools and counties, improves forest health, and helps prevent catastrophic wildfires. Hastings ANS – Forest Package Legislation (Passed by Voice Vote) This amendment combined several proposals to address the forest… Read more »

Reporting H.R. 1459 Out of Committee (Passed 26-14. View Roll Call Vote) This bill would the Antiquities Act to require that the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) apply to presidential declarations. This bill prevents future abuse and backdoor maneuvers to lock up lands without local input. Grijalva Amendment .025 – Undermines Legislation and Exempts Unilateral Presidential… Read more »

H. Rept. 113-166 Read more »

H. Rept. 113-167 Read more »

Dear Director Mathews Burwell, Secretary Vilsack, and Chief Tidwell: A letter was sent to the Office of Management and Budget ("OMB") on May 20, 2013 requesting information about the Forest Service's ("Service") decision demanding that states repay Secure Rural Schools Program ("SRS") funds. OMB missed the Committee's June 3, 2013 deadline for response. The original letter sought… Read more »

The National Park Service (NPS) is currently drafting a plan to determine the future of the Merced River in Yosemite National Park. Earlier this week, the Subcommittee on Public Lands and Environmental Regulation heard from witnesses regarding this plan that could permanently remove several recreational amenities that have long been a staple for visitors to the Merced River floodplain.… Read more »