FIR Act

# Forest Information Reform Act (HR 598) - Summary **What the bill would do:** The Forest Information Reform Act would change how the U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management handle land management plans when new endangered or threatened species are discovered or protected. Currently, when a species becomes legally protected or new information emerges about how existing plans might affect wildlife, these agencies must restart their consultation process.

This bill would eliminate that requirement, allowing existing land management plans to continue without mandatory review even when species protections are added or new environmental data becomes available. **Who it affects:** The bill would impact environmental organizations, wildlife advocates, and conservation groups that rely on the consultation process to protect endangered species. It would also affect timber companies, ranchers, and other industries using federal lands, as they could proceed with existing land management plans without delays from new endangered species protections. Native American tribes and the general public concerned with wildlife preservation could also be affected. **Current status:** The bill was introduced in the 119th Congress by Representative Ryan Zinke (R-MT) and is currently in committee, meaning it has not yet been debated or voted on by the full House of Representatives.