Public Lands Fire Regulations Enforcement Act of 2003
Read twice and referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. (text of measure as introduced: CR S5069)
Congressional Research Service
Official summary
Version 00 · Introduced in Senate · Apr 9, 2003
Public Lands Fire Regulations Enforcement Act of 2003 - Revises penalties for violations of the rules regulating the use of fire by visitors of public lands if such violation results in damage to public or private property. Changes the maximum $1,000 fine to a minimum $1,000 fine with respect to public lands under the Bureau of Land Management. Changes penalties with respect to National Park and National Forest Systems from a maximum $500 fine and six months imprisonment to a minimum $1,000 fine and a maximum 12 months imprisonment.Declares that the above fine amounts apply in lieu of the fines otherwise applicable under specified law pertaining to criminal procedure.Makes money collected from fines imposed for violation of fire rules under this Act available for the purposes of: (1) covering costs to the United States of any improvement, protection, or rehabilitation rendered necessary by the action that resulted in the fine; (2) reimbursing the affected agency for the cost of the response to such action, including investigations, damage assessments, and legal actions; and (3) increasing public awareness of rules, regulations, and other requirements regarding the use of fire on public lands.
Source last updated: Sep 8, 2026. Consult Congress.gov for the current record.
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