Cornhusker State News

U.S. Senator Deb Fischer’s (R-Neb.) Emergency Conservation Program Improvement Act has passed the Senate Agriculture Committee. The legislation aims to reform the Emergency Conservation Program (ECP) and the Emergency Forest Restoration Program (EFRP). If enacted, it would allow producers affected by disasters to receive a larger portion of cost-share funds up front.

The bill also proposes to expand eligibility for federal disaster relief to include any wildfire caused or spread by natural causes, as well as those started by federal government actions. Additionally, a new provision would give participants more time to use rehabilitative funds, allowing for a longer period to complete necessary work.

“When disaster strikes, the last thing Nebraskans need is more bureaucratic red tape. Unfortunately, that is the case with the ECP’s current distribution system. By streamlining the recovery process, my bill will ensure that our ag producers have access to the resources they need. I’m grateful the Senate Agriculture Committee approved this important legislation, and I look forward to getting it to the president’s desk to be signed into law,” Fischer said.

The legislation now moves forward in the legislative process for further consideration.