Bill would let tribes request FEMA fire assistance directly
February 19, 2025
A bipartisan bill reintroduced in the U.S. Senate would allow tribal governments to request Fire Management Assistance Grant declarations directly from FEMA, bypassing state approval. Lawmakers say the change would streamline wildfire response and uphold tribal sovereignty. Tribes currently face barriers in accessing federal fire disaster aid, despite being disproportionately affected by wildfires. The bill is backed by tribal organizations and awaits review by the Senate Committee on Homeland Security.
We provide the independent reporting that non-Native, extractive outlets often overlook. We give our communities the context and the facts they need to make informed decisions.
As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, we exist to illuminate tribal government decision-making for everyone who cares about transparency about Native issues. Because the consequences of restricted press freedom affect our communities every day, our trauma-informed reporting is rooted in a deep, firsthand expertise. Every gift helps keep the fire burning. A monthly contribution makes the biggest impact.