The Senate passed House Bill 175 after floor debate emphasizing wildfire risk reduction and watershed restoration. The vote was announced as 36 in the affirmative and 0 in the negative.

Senator Wirth, sponsor of the measure, said the bill amends the Forest and Watershed Restoration Act to give the state more flexibility in funding projects that create and maintain buffer zones in the wildland‑urban interface and to prioritize high‑risk areas. Wirth thanked Representative Vincent for work on the companion House measure.

Senators supporting the bill described the measures as life‑safety work that helps firefighters and protects communities from wildfire and erosion. Senator Campos noted that forest thinning and preventive projects reduce risks to communities; Senator Ramos raised concerns about federal litigation slowing U.S. Forest Service work but said the bill would help despite that challenge.

The act’s fund balance was discussed: a senator stated the Forest and Watershed Restoration Program fund balance is $5.5 million. Questions about application processes and project eligibility were referred to the Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department, which administers the program.

The bill passed the Senate and will proceed toward final enrollment and implementation through the energy and natural resources division.

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