This morning, the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources advanced the North Rim Restoration Act of 2025 by unanimous consent. The legislation, introduced by Rep. Eli Crane (R-AZ), now awaits consideration by the full Senate before it can be signed into law.

Following the devastating Dragon Bravo Fire at the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, Rep. Crane introduced H.R. 5729 on October 10, 2025, to accelerate recovery efforts. After the bill received a hearing and markup, the House unanimously passed the measure on March 16, 2026. If enacted, the legislation would grant the National Park Service emergency contracting authority to cut through red tape and avoid unnecessary delays across all fire-related work. Eligible activities include forest management, rebuilding, and infrastructure improvements.

Rep. Crane drafted the bill in coordination with park staff, small business owners, concessioners, and local elected officials. He has stayed in close contact with leaders on the ground and recently hosted Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum at the North Rim. With today’s progress in the Senate, Rep. Crane continues to push for the bill’s final passage.

“On behalf of the small businesses, gateway communities, park staff, and residents relying on a full recovery from the Dragon Bravo Fire, I greatly appreciate Chairman Mike Lee’s leadership in advancing this critical legislation. We owe it to the Arizonans living with this destruction to remove every obstacle and pave the way toward rapid relief,” said Rep. Crane. “As this Congress nears its end, it’s essential we get this bill to the President’s desk before we’re forced to start over. I urge my Senate colleagues to act without delay so we can restore this natural wonder and revive the communities that depend on it.”