John –

The budget House Republicans just passed guts our ability to predict, react, and respond to weather disasters across the country.

We've just seen the consequences in the horrific floods in Texas last week. When early warning systems, trained meteorologists, and needed funding are neglected, people die.

I spoke with the Oregon State Fire Marshall earlier this week about Oregon's upcoming fire season, how to prepare, and how I'm working to improve wildfire policy nationwide. I just introduced the Wildfire Resilient Communities Act, which is legislation that would provide dedicated, long-term federal support for hazardous fuels reduction, forest restoration, and community preparedness.

Let's be clear: Mike Johnson and House Republicans chose tax giveaways to the rich over working people at risk of losing homes and possessions when wildfires or other disasters strike our region.

Experts are predicting that Oregon will see an intense wildfire season this year, with above-normal wildfire danger starting next month.

Like across the country, the climate crisis is intensifying storms and disasters. Already this year, more than 20,000 acres have burned. Workers, families, and communities need funding to prepare and protect their homes and businesses.

Because of Trump's promise to gut FEMA, state and local governments are moving money around to try to make up for lost funding for emergency communications, warnings, evacuations, and other disaster response needs.

It is despicable for Republicans to cut programs as essential as wildfire, flooding, and natural disaster preparedness and response.

I'm working with my colleagues to right this wrong as we speak, and introduce legislation that puts wildfire safety and disaster preparedness front and center in Congress.

Val