Congresswoman Torres Reintroduces Wildfire Grid Resiliency Act
Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Norma J. Torres (CA-35) today reintroduced the Wildfire Grid Resiliency Act, which would allocate $10,000,000 for the Department of Energy (DOE) to develop technologies to mitigate wildfire-related electrical grid damage. The legislation authorizes the Secretary of Energy to provide grants to the DOE National Laboratories for projects to protect power grids from fire damage, monitor vegetation management, and protect first responders.
"Californians deserve a government that's actively working to protect them from wildfires. Last year, there were more than 7,000 wildfires in California alone. As our state faces droughts and record-breaking heat waves, wildfires pose an outsized threat to the Inland Empire. Congress must provide the necessary resources to keep our communities safe," said Congresswoman Torres. "This means ensuring that our power grids can withstand damage from increasingly frequent and severe fires. My legislation helps California families and businesses stay safe during and after these disasters."
Areas affected by wildfires face an increased risk of flash flooding and mudslides. Earlier this month, Congresswoman Torres introduced the Mudslide Recovery Act to help mudslide victims recover from property damage. The Congresswoman also previously led a resolution with 30+ Members of Congress to recognize Wildfire Preparedness Week.