Wildfire Responder Protection Act
To amend title 5, United States Code, to modify certain requirements for employees in fire protection activities for worker's compensation under chapter 81 of such title, and for other purposes.
This bill aims to change some rules about worker's compensation for employees who work in fire protection activities. Specifically, it seeks to amend Title 5 of the United States Code to make it easier for wildfire responders to receive benefits if they get injured on the job. This would impact firefighters and emergency personnel who are involved in wildfire response, providing them with better support and protection if they are hurt while working.
The bill was introduced on July 30, 2026, and has been referred to the House Committee on Education and Workforce for further review. The sponsors of the bill are Michael Lawler, a Republican co-sponsor, and Brittany Pettersen, the primary Democratic sponsor. It is currently in its initial stages, having just been introduced and referred to the appropriate committee.
The key actions so far include the bill being introduced in the House on July 30, 2026, and being referred to the House Committee on Education and Workforce on the same day. Moving forward, the committee will review the bill, potentially hold hearings, and decide whether to move it forward for a vote by the full House.
