Image courtesy Sen. Marshall’s office
U.S. Senators Roger Marshall, M.D., and Jeff Merkley announced the introduction of the bipartisan Post-Wildfire Environmental Assistance Act on Tuesday. The legislation is designed to help communities in Kansas and across the country clean up hazardous materials and debris left behind after wildfires.
The bill would make areas impacted by wildfires that receive Fire Management Assistance Grants eligible for federal funding to support hazardous material cleanup and debris removal. Currently, those resources are only available to communities that receive a Major Disaster Declaration. The legislation would also authorize the Environmental Protection Agency to provide technical assistance to state and local governments to help them safely manage and dispose of wildfire-related hazardous materials.
“When a fast-moving wildfire tore through Yates Center and destroyed its nursing home, community members and first responders heroically evacuated every resident to safety. But the danger didn’t end when the flames were extinguished. Wildfires leave behind hazardous debris, contaminated sites, and serious long-term health risks that small communities are often not equipped to manage on their own,” said Senator Marshall. “I am proud to partner with Senator Merkley to ensure local governments have the tools and support they need to respond to wildfires, safely clean up hazardous debris, and protect the health and safety of their communities.”
The following fires have been awarded Fire Management Assistance Grants Since 2020:
