Tester Demands Congress Address Montana During Wildfire Season

Senator Pushes for Resources to Fight Devastating Wildfires Across Montana

(U.S. Senate)– U.S. Senator Jon Tester took to the Senate floor today to demand Congress address wildfires across Montana and the west.

“I travelled around the state and saw with my own eyes the fires that are sweeping across Montana,” Tester said. “I am asking each and every one of you to stand with the people of Montana as they fight for blue skies and fresh air once again.”

Tester toured fire camps and attended briefings throughout August. As the Senate considers aid to the parts of America impacted by Hurricane Harvey, Tester urged his colleagues to step up on behalf of fire-ravaged states like Montana.

“Saving lives and property when disaster strikes is a fundamental pillar of government,” Tester said. “It is not a Democrat or Republican issue, it is an American responsibility. I am confident we can work together to ensure the victims of Harvey get the relief they need and the states that are burning, like Montana, have the resources they need to protect our citizens, our economy, and our way of life.”

Last week, Tester secured more than $3 million in Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) grants for Montana.

Last month, at Tester’s urging, FEMA granted emergency funding for the Lodgepole Complex Fire.

Montanans impacted by wildfires can contact Tester’s office HERE if they need help navigating federal disaster assistance.

You can watch Tester’s full speech HERE.