Feb. 20, 2025
HARRISBURG – In response to the devastating wildfires across the nation and the alarming increase in forest fires in Pennsylvania, Rep. Michael Stender (R-Montour/Northumberland), today announced his plan to introduce a comprehensive three-bill package aimed at improving the state’s ability to prevent, manage and fight wildfires.
“This surge in wildfires demands immediate action. If we want to protect our communities, our first responders, and our natural resources, we must invest in wildfire prevention and response efforts,” said Stender. “The bills I will introduce are designed to enhance our state’s ability to combat wildfires, strengthen our forest fire response infrastructure and ensure the safety of all Pennsylvanians.”
The three bills include:
• Elevating the Chief Forest Fire Warden: This bill would elevate the chief forest fire warden to the level of deputy secretary within the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), ensuring greater authority and support for wildfire prevention and response efforts.
• Reimbursements for Local Forest Fire Wardens: This bill would require DCNR to reimburse local forest fire wardens for training, fire investigations, prescribed burns, and public outreach, supporting the vital work of these volunteer first responders.
• Annual Forest Fire Reports: This bill would mandate an annual report from the chief forest fire warden to the General Assembly, providing updates on wildfire prevention efforts and the state’s progress in combating forest fires.
“We must act now to ensure Pennsylvania is prepared for the growing threat of wildfires and our communities are safer in the years to come,” said Stender.
Stender will continue to provide updates on this package of legislation in this legislative session. For more information, please contact his Harrisburg office at 717-787-3485.
Representative Michael Stender
108th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Huntre Keip
717.772.9837
hkeip@pahousegop.com
RepMichaelStender.com / Facebook.com/RepStender