East Idaho Times

U.S. Senators Jim Risch and Jeff Merkley have introduced a bill aiming to lower federal cost-sharing requirements for public lands projects conducted by youth or conservation corps. This legislation seeks to reduce the financial burden from 25% to 10%.

Senator Risch explained that current cost-sharing rules are hindering youth conservation corps from carrying out vital public lands projects. He stated, "My bill reduces this barrier to better allow our youth corps to enhance our public lands while instilling life skills and job training to the future workforce."

Senator Merkley highlighted the increasing workload falling on the Youth Corps due to federal budget cuts. He emphasized, "As more work falls on the Youth Corps due to cuts at federal agencies, it has never been more important to support its critical work to enhance our public lands." Merkley also pointed out that these efforts foster skills development for young people, promoting career growth in environmental fields. He urged Congress to pass the bipartisan bill, noting it would expand opportunities for emerging leaders.

The proposed legislation has garnered support from U.S. Senators Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.). Jeff Parker, CEO of Idaho Conservation Corps, praised the legislation, saying, "This important adjustment to the Public Lands Corps Act will allow many more young Americans participate in service while protecting our communities from wildfire, improving our outdoor recreation facilities, and keeping our lands and waters healthy for generations."

Senators and advocates alike support the bill, which aims to bolster the capabilities of conservation programs and provide young people with career-related skills in resource management, forestry, and wildfire management.