Zinke Amendment to Strengthen Western Wildfire Fighting Capabilities Advances in House

Press Release

On Wednesday night the House Armed Services Committee (HASC) advanced legislation introduced by Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke that will strengthen the wildfire fighting capabilities of western states through the Air National Guard MAFFS (Military Airborne FireFighting Systems). The amendment will now go to a vote before the entire House of Representatives as part of the FY2016 National Defense Authorization Act.

"Montana and other Western states have seen devastating wildfires rage through our lands, taking entire communities and leaving countless fatalities in their wake," said Rep. Zinke. "My amendment will allow the Air Force to improve wildfire readiness and move firefighting capabilities to western military hubs, like Great Falls. In a year when wildfires are predicted to be particularly tough, this realignment of resources cannot come soon enough."

Each year wildfires devastate more land and property in Western states and predictions look grim for the upcoming season. Congressman Zinke is working through every avenue to make sure Montana is as prepared as possible. He has joined the Montana delegation in cosponsoring HR167, the "Wildfire Disaster Funding Act" and has proposed this amendment to make sure National Guard assets are readily available if disaster strikes.

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