In Light Of California Wildfires And Widespread Climate Disasters, Gillibrand Calling For Robust State-Federal Cooperation To Ensure New York’s Resilience Against Climate Threats

In Light Of California Wildfires And Widespread Climate Disasters, Gillibrand Calling For Robust State-Federal Cooperation To Ensure New York's Resilience Against Climate Threats

Jan 16, 2025

In light of California's devastating wildfires and the increasing frequency and severity of climate disasters across the country, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand held a virtual press conference to call for robust state-federal cooperation to ensure that New York is fully prepared to respond to wildfires and other threats. Gillibrand is committed to delivering any necessary federal resources to the NYS Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services and the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation to support their critical work training firefighters, managing New York's forests, and educating the public on fire safety.

"While New York has so far been spared severe destruction from wildfires, these types of disasters are nevertheless becoming increasingly common in our state and throughout the East Coast," said Senator Gillibrand. "As our climate crisis worsens, we must be prepared. Today, I am committing to delivering any necessary federal resources to help New York proactively prepare for wildfires and related threats. I look forward to cooperating closely with state government and our brave firefighters."

The full text of Senator Gillibrand's letter to the New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services is available here or below:

The Honorable Jackie Bray

Commissioner

Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services

1220 Washington Avenue

State Office Campus

Building 7A, Suite 710

Albany, NY 12226

Dear Commissioner Bray,

I am writing today to inquire about the preparedness of New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services (DHSES) and its partners to combat potential wildfires in New York State. Climate change has exacerbated the unpredictability of weather conditions and natural disasters. New York has experienced several natural disasters in recent years, including wildfires, tornadoes, snowstorms, and flooding, and it is critical New York is prepared for the potential of unpredictable weather patterns that may lead to economic losses or loss of life.

With increased periods of drought in New York State, it is increasingly important that New York is prepared to handle naturally occurring or accidental wildfires. The Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, as well as the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC), do an excellent job at training firefighters, providing technical assistance to communities, and managing New York's forests to prevent the spread of wildfires in our state.

In the wake of the devastation of the ongoing wildfires in California, I am profoundly saddened by the loss of life, homes, and communities. Also considering recent wildfires in New York, such as the Jennings Creek Fire, it is important that New York be proactive in its fire prevention programs through public education, forest management, and government preparedness. I am reaching out to request a briefing from your team on the following topics:

1. What are the preparedness plans for the DHSES and the Office of Fire Prevention and Control in the face of increasing fire threats?
2. How does DHSES coordinate with NYSDEC to consider climate change impacts on wildfire preparedness?
3. What support can the federal government provide to bolster the work of the Office of Fire Control and Prevention to ensure New York is prepared for potential fires?

I look forward to learning more about your plans and the support you provide New York State in the face of increasing wildfire threats. I stand ready to assist you in your vital prevention and preparedness work, and I am committed to ensuring New Yorkers and all Americans are able to recover from these types of natural disasters.

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