Emergency Conservation Program Improvement Act of 2025
What does the Emergency Conservation Program Improvement Act of 2025 do?
HR 1011 is a House bill sponsored by Rep. Julia Letlow (R-LA). Lets farmers hit by natural disasters collect more of their federal repair money up front — up to 75% before rebuilding fences or rehabilitating farmland, up from 25% for fencing only — and extends the same advance option to private forest owners restoring disaster-damaged woodland. Damage from wildfires the government caused now qualifies too, when the fire spread naturally. Raises Emergency Conservation Program advance payments from 25% (fencing only) to up to 75%, covers federally caused wildfires, and creates 75% advances for private forest restoration.
Did HR 1011 pass? Where it stands
As of July 17, 2026, HR 1011 has passed the House.
Status: Passed House
Latest vote: House Passed 395–10 on April 14, 2026
Outlook: Likely
Key provisions
- Disaster Advance Payments for Farmers
- Advance option grows from 25% to up to 75%
- Now covers farmland rehab and conservation structures, not just fencing
- Repairs qualify for 50% up front
- Government-Caused Wildfires Covered
- Non-natural wildfires qualify, including fires caused by the Federal Government
- Applies when damage comes from the fire's natural spread
- Forest Owner Advances
- Private forest owners can get 75% of restoration costs up front
- Unspent funds must be returned after 180 days
Last updated July 10, 2026