Cantwell demands release of wildfire aid blocked by federal policy dispute
By Dan Thesman on Wednesday, May 13th, 2026 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories
WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Sen. Maria Cantwell (D-WA) on Wednesday pressed U.S. Forest Service Chief Tom Schultz to release $49 million in blocked wildfire funding, warning that new federal restrictions leave Washington vulnerable ahead of a dangerous fire season.
The dispute stems from a December U.S. Department of Agriculture policy change requiring states to follow Trump administration executive orders on diversity, immigration and gender identity to receive grants. Cantwell argued these “terms and conditions” conflict with state laws and stall critical prevention work.
“I’m very concerned, because we don’t seem to be prepared on the front lines here,” Cantwell said. “Paperwork isn’t what we need right now. These are funds that flow every year normally, but now aren’t flowing.”
Schultz testified that states could receive funds by signing the new agreements, but Cantwell demanded a reversal of the policy as outlooks predict elevated fire risks across the Pacific Northwest this summer.
During a D.C. hearing Wednesday, Sen. Maria Cantwell (D-WA), seated on the right, pressed Forest Service Chief Tom Schultz over new restrictions she says are blocking annual funding for her state. (Image via Cantwell’s official Senate website)
