In a letter dated June 5th, Senator Dianne Feinstein, along with a bipartisan group of Western senators, called on the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Government Affairs to address the issue of wildland firefighter recruitment and retention. Emphasizing the need for a long-term solution before the expiration of short-term pay increases provided by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law on September 30th, 2023, the Senators highlighted the escalating threat of catastrophic wildfires, which have become more destructive, dangerous, and costly in recent years. The Senators stressed the importance of supporting federal wildland firefighters by providing fair pay, addressing their mental and physical health needs, and ensuring a resilient workforce to protect communities. They urged the Committee to take immediate action to invest in these firefighters, who are at the forefront of combating wildfires and safeguarding critical infrastructure and resources.
