WASHINGTON, D.C. – Representative Joe Baca (D-Rialto) today introduced an amendment in the House Agriculture Committee legislative mark up that will allow United States Department of Agriculture liaisons to assist in federal wildfire disasters. 

The amendment was added to HR 3157, a bill that provides for the designation of a USDA employee to serve as a liaison in response to federally declared disasters.  Baca’s language ensures that wildfires are included on this list. This amendment, which could help bring more federal assistance and more personnel to California to help deal with the aftermath of the wildfires, passed unanimously.  

HR 3157 establishes a USDA presence at field offices on location during the disaster. It also allows for expedited funding requests for emergency assistance available through various agriculture departments and programs operated within the USDA. 

“Language is very important when we are dealing with laws,” Baca said. “I wanted to make sure that California is going to get the help that it needs during this time of crisis. That is why I insisted that wildfires be included onto the USDA list.” 

“Southern California and the Inland Empire are being devastated by these fires,” Baca said.  “Our economy is being further harmed by the massive damage to homes, property, and businesses. We must make sure that federal money is coming here to help the residents rebuild their lives. The USDA has a program that will help. I wanted to make sure we aren’t going to be overlooked during our time of need.” 

The Baca Amendment is expected to pass through the House and Senate without opposition.  

Baca has been very active throughout the course of the wildfires. He has visited the wreckage throughout the areas and has spoken with Governor Elect Arnold Schwarzenegger about bringing more aid into the state to help relieve the damage. Baca drafted a letter to the president days ago requesting that San Bernardino County be declared a federal disaster area. He has also drafted letters to the House Appropriations Chairmen and Ranking Members requesting additional funding for federal firefighting activities and firefighter assistance and equipment.