Summary of HR 5091: Hazard Pay for Prescribed Burns

Bill Number: HR 5091

Title: To amend section 5545 of title 5, United States Code, to provide hazard pay for carrying out prescribed burns, and for other purposes.

Status: Introduced in House

Introduced On: September 02, 2025

Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

HR 5091 aims to amend existing federal law to provide hazard pay for firefighters engaged in the control and suppression of prescribed burns. The bill recognizes the risks and arduous nature of this work, which is comparable to wildfire suppression. It also seeks to extend hazard pay to smokejumpers, who perform aerial firefighting duties that involve jumping from airplanes, thus facing significant hazards.

Key Provisions

• Hazard Pay for Firefighters: The bill asserts that firefighters involved in prescribed fire suppression should receive hazard pay due to the risks associated with smoke exposure and the physically demanding nature of their work.

• Inclusion of Smokejumpers: Smokejumpers, who are specially trained aerial firefighters, would also be eligible for hazard pay. Their role involves high-risk activities, including parachuting into remote areas to combat wildfires.

• Sense of Congress: The bill expresses the sense of Congress that effective fire management, including prescribed burns, is crucial for fire preparedness and land management.

Impact

• Affected Personnel: The legislation would directly benefit federal firefighters and smokejumpers who engage in prescribed burns and wildfire suppression activities. This could lead to increased compensation for these workers, acknowledging the dangers they face in their roles.

• Fire Management Practices: By providing hazard pay, the bill may encourage more personnel to engage in prescribed burns, which are essential for reducing wildfire risks and managing land effectively.

Procedural Aspects

• Committee Referral: Upon introduction, HR 5091 was referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform for further consideration.

• Timeline: The bill was introduced on September 02, 2025, and is currently in the early stages of the legislative process.

Conclusion

HR 5091 seeks to enhance the safety and compensation of federal firefighters and smokejumpers by recognizing the hazards associated with their work in prescribed burns. By providing hazard pay, the bill aims to ensure fair compensation for these essential roles in fire management and land stewardship.