A resolution recognizing that climate change is making wildfires more frequent, more intense, and more destructive.
Term Dictionary
If you come across any unfamiliar words while reading, these resources can help make everything clearer. Pick whichever one works best for you!
- Congress.gov Legislative Glossary - Comprehensive congressional terms
- NVFC Congressional Terms Glossary - Concise, easy-to-understand definitions
The gist
- Non-binding Senate resolution declaring climate change is making wildfires worse and urging full funding for federal wildfire prevention and response.
Who wins, who loses
- Wins: climate scientists, wildfire-prone communities, federal firefighting agencies seeking bigger budgets.
- Loses: no one materially; symbolic only. Climate skeptics see it as political messaging.
What it does
- Cites National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) finding that human-caused climate change is the main driver of Western fire weather.
- Notes US Forest Service data showing fire season grew from 4 months to 6-8 months.
- References $424 billion annual wildfire cost calculated by the US Geological Survey.
- Points to January 2025 Los Angeles fires: 15,000+ homes destroyed, 24+ deaths.
Why should I care?
Wildfire smoke travels thousands of miles, closing schools and harming air quality far from the flames. Supporters say Congress must officially link climate change to fires to justify bigger prevention budgets. Critics argue symbolic resolutions waste time and the funding fight should happen through actual appropriations bills. Where do you land? Vote below and use "Tell Your Rep" to make sure your voice reaches Congress.