Oregon lawmakers approve $218M in emergency wildfire funding in special session

Associated Press

SALEM, Ore. (AP) — Oregon lawmakers have approved $218 million in emergency wildfire funding after convening for a special session. The state has seen a historic wildfire season in 2024. Blazes scorched a record 1.9 million acres, largely in rural eastern Oregon, and destroyed over 40 homes. According to Gov. Tina Kotek’s office, fighting the fires cost the state over $350 million, making it the most expensive wildfire season in Oregon history. The emergency funding approved Thursday will help state agencies pay the contractors that helped fight the blazes and provide resources. Oregon is among several states, including California, Wyoming and North Dakota, that have requested federal disaster declarations this year to help with wildfire recovery costs.