[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 122 (Monday, July 27, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E739]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





                    PASSING THE FIX OUR FORESTS ACT

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                          HON. BRUCE WESTERMAN

                              of arkansas

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, July 27, 2026

  Mr. WESTERMAN. Mr. Speaker, across the United States, severe 
wildfires continue to place tremendous pressure on surrounding 
communities, wildlife, and some of our Nation's most treasured public 
lands. Just this past month we have witnessed the devastating human 
cost as firefighters gave their lives protecting others from these 
catastrophic fires. Their sacrifice shows just how urgent wildfire 
prevention is. This is not a future concern; it is an innate 
responsibility. Additionally, the 250th celebration of America serves 
as an opportunity for reflection, not just on the previous 250 years 
but also for the next 250 years yet to come.
  Congress has acted in the bipartisan legislation, that is the Fix Our 
Forests Act (FOFA). FOFA recognizes the need for healthy forests in 
order to mitigate wildfire risks, damage to our ecosystems, and climate 
change. This legislation is key to active forest management, which is 
why Congress must act to pass this influential reform. We owe it to our 
firefighters and communities to move beyond discussion and take 
meaningful action through the passage of this legislation.

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