Restore wildfire response capacity, prioritize public safety

The mass termination of federal workers, including those who aid in wildfire response, is deeply concerning and puts public safety at risk. While the administration touts "efficiency" as the goal, these actions endanger lives and communities across the nation. The recent wildfires in Los Angeles demonstrated the critical role played by Forest Service personnel and others in containing devastating blazes. Cutting their ranks severely diminishes firefighting capacity when experienced hands are desperately needed. Wildfire season grows longer and more extreme each year due to climate change. Reducing the workforce intended to combat these threats is dangerously shortsighted. Rather than pursuing arbitrary layoffs, we should be bolstering resources and staffing for firefighters and supporting roles. Their work protects homes, businesses, natural habitats and lives. Prioritizing a handful of financial savings over comprehensive wildfire preparedness jeopardizes all we hold dear. Public safety must come before ill-conceived budget slashing that weakens our ability to confront increasing climate disasters. Reconsider and reverse these reckless terminations before more preventable tragedies occur.