Wildfire Emissions Prevention Act of 2026
A bill to amend the Clean Air Act to modify the handling of air quality monitoring with respect to prescribed fires, and for other purposes.
This bill, SB5045, aims to change how the Clean Air Act manages air quality monitoring when it comes to prescribed fires. Prescribed fires are fires that are intentionally set for certain purposes, like managing forests. The bill was introduced on July 21, 2026, and it has been referred to the Committee on Environment and Public Works for further review.
The bill affects anyone involved in managing air quality, particularly in areas where prescribed fires are used. It seeks to adjust the regulations around monitoring air quality during these controlled burns to ensure they are handled properly while still allowing for their benefits, such as reducing the risk of larger, uncontrolled wildfires.
As of July 21, 2026, the bill is in its initial stages. It has been introduced and read twice in the Senate. The next steps will involve the committee reviewing the bill, possibly holding hearings, and making recommendations on whether it should move forward in the legislative process.
