Southwest Montana News

Today, Congressman Matt Rosendale (MT-02) announced that his Forest Information Reform (FIR) Act has passed the U.S. House of Representatives. This legislation is part of Chairman Bruce Westerman’s (AR-04) Fix Our Forests Act. The FIR Act aims to address regulatory challenges resulting from the United States Forest Service v. Cottonwood Environmental Law Center decision, which has imposed stringent regulations on developing infrastructure and managing resources on federal lands.

The FIR Act will streamline the federal process by exempting the U.S. Forest Service from re-consulting with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service over new Endangered Species Act data. This change is intended to eliminate delays and improve efficiency in forest management and infrastructure development.

“I’m proud that the House of Representatives is standing up against unnecessary, burdensome regulations that infringe upon Montanans and our private lands by finally passing the FIR Act,” said Rep. Rosendale. “This legislation is a critical step in protecting our natural resources while ensuring that local communities and tribes throughout the Treasure State maintain control over their land management decisions. Now, it’s up to the Senate to advance this important legislation.”