The "Mudslide Recovery Act" establishes a grant program to aid communities recovering from mudslides following wildland fires, allocating $5 million annually from 2026-2032.
Norma Torres
Representative
CA-35
The Mudslide Recovery Act establishes a pilot grant program to aid communities recovering from mudslides that occur after wildland fires. The Secretaries of Interior and Homeland Security will administer the competitive grant program, awarding funds to eligible recipients such as states, tribes, local governments, and non-profit organizations. The program is authorized to receive $5,000,000 annually from 2026 through 2032.
Mudslide Recovery Act Kicks Off New Grant Program: $5M Annually for Post-Wildfire Cleanup Starting 2026
The "Mudslide Recovery Act" sets up a new pilot program to help communities hit by mudslides that often follow devastating wildfires. Instead of just dealing with the fire, this bill recognizes that the danger isn't over when the flames are out – mudslides can cause massive damage after the fire's been put out.
Digging Out After Disaster
This Act sets aside $5,000,000 every year from 2026 through 2032. That money's going into a competitive grant program run by the Secretaries of the Interior and Homeland Security (with FEMA chipping in). Think of it as dedicated funding for the after-aftermath of wildfires. It acknowledges that recovery goes beyond fire suppression. (SEC. 2)
Who Can Get Help?
It's not just for state governments. The bill makes sure the money can reach a range of groups actually doing the work on the ground: states, Indian Tribes, local governments, fire departments, and even non-profits like homeowner associations that help at-risk communities. (SEC. 2). So, if you're a local fire chief in a small town dealing with post-fire mudflow, or part of a neighborhood group trying to protect homes, this could provide real support.
Real-World Impact
Imagine a small town in California where a wildfire ripped through the hills. After the fire, heavy rains come, and suddenly, homes are buried in mud. This grant could help that town pay for the heavy equipment needed to clear roads, reinforce slopes to prevent more slides, and help families get back on their feet. Or picture a tribal community in Montana facing the same problem – this funding could be used to protect vital infrastructure or restore damaged lands. The key is that it's flexible, designed to meet the specific mudslide recovery needs in different places. (SEC. 2)
Getting it Done
The Secretaries of Interior and Homeland Security have 180 days from when this Act passes to get the program up and running. That means figuring out the application process, setting clear rules, and making sure the money gets where it's needed most. It's a tight timeline, but it shows a commitment to getting help out quickly. (SEC. 2)