Faster Forest Disaster Recovery and Reforestation
This act aims to speed up activities related to clearing damage after natural disasters, such as wildfires, on forest and public lands. This means quicker removal of fallen trees and more efficient reforestation, which can impact timber availability and the natural environment. These processes will be less burdened by bureaucracy, while still maintaining certain environmental standards.
Key points
Expedited Damage Cleanup: Post-disaster operations, like those following wildfires, can proceed faster, without lengthy environmental assessments for smaller areas (up to 10,000 acres).
Faster Reforestation: After large-scale catastrophic events, at least 75% of impacted lands are to be reforested within 5 years.
Reduced Legal Challenges: Courts will be prohibited from issuing restraining orders or injunctions against salvage and reforestation efforts following major disasters.
Public Input: Despite the expedited process, citizens will still have opportunities for public comment and objection, albeit within shorter timeframes.
Expired
Additional Information
Print number: 118_HR_567
Sponsor: Rep. Obernolte, Jay [R-CA-23]
Process start date: 2023-01-26