While regions across the country face serious risks of wildfires this season, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said there will be fewer firefighters available to battle the blazes due to the across the board budget cuts that went into effect earlier this year.
As a result of the budget cuts, known as the sequester, Vilsack said that the Forest Service will have about 500 fewer firefighters and 50 fewer engines.
"The US Forest Service, Federal fire managers and crews will continue to work closely with states and communities to protect residents, property and our natural resources during what could be a challenging wildfire season," Vilsack said.
He added, "We are working together to preposition our firefighting teams and equipment to make the most effective use of available resources during this time of constrained budgets."
Approximately $85 billion in automatic cuts to both defense and domestic spending went into effect in March, as familiar disagreements over taxes and entitlement reforms prevented lawmakers from reaching a broader budget agreement.
For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com
Political News
June 05, 2026 16:18 ET A busy week for economic news flow saw a slew of reports being released that reflected the trends in the U.S. labor market. In Europe, economic growth and inflation data gained attention as the European Central Bank and Bank of England head for policy session later in the month. In Asia, the monetary policy session of the Indian central bank was in focus as the country, a major oil importer, reels under the pressures of a weaker rupee and rising inflation.