A bill pitched as a shield against catastrophic wildfire is dividing Northern California over the future of forests like the Shasta-Trinity. The Fix Our Forests Act has lawmakers and conservationists lining up on opposite sides, each claiming the region’s safety is at stake. Supporters argue the legislation cuts through bureaucratic delay, speeding approval for the controlled burns and vegetation-thinning projects meant to reduce fire risk. One provision would let electric utilities holding permits or easements clear vegetation near power lines on federal land without a separate timber sale, a change backers say removes a needless bottleneck. Rep. David Gallagher, who recently won a special election to represent the district, framed the bill as essential in an era of nearly year-round fire seasons, and the measure has drawn support from figures including Gov. Gavin Newsom and Sen. Alex Padilla.