H.R.390 - Advanced Capabilities for Emergency Response Operations Act; ACERO Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 390, the Advanced Capabilities for Emergency Response Operations Act (ACERO Act), aims to improve aerial responses to wildfires by leveraging NASA-developed technologies. The bill directs the NASA Administrator to conduct research and development activities under the ACERO project. This includes advanced aircraft technologies, information sharing, and the development of an interoperable platform for situational awareness.
Expected Effects
The bill would lead to enhanced coordination and management of aerial assets during wildfire response efforts. It also promotes collaboration between federal, state, and local agencies, as well as commercial and academic partners. The Act also includes a prohibition on procuring unmanned aircraft systems from covered foreign entities, with a waiver possible under specific conditions.
Potential Benefits
- Improved management and coordination of aerial assets during wildfire responses.
- Enhanced information sharing and real-time data exchange for wildfire response teams.
- Development of an interoperable platform for situational awareness.
- Establishment of a multi-agency concept of operations for coordinated aerial activities.
- Potential for preventing injuries, loss of life, protecting property, and reducing economic damage from wildfires.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential delays or increased costs due to the prohibition on procuring unmanned aircraft systems from covered foreign entities.
- Possible bureaucratic hurdles in coordinating between multiple agencies and organizations.
- The effectiveness of the activities depends on the successful development and implementation of the technologies and platforms.
- Limited funding authorization of $15,000,000 for fiscal year 2026 may not be sufficient for all planned activities.
- The reliance on NASA-developed technologies may limit the scope of innovation to existing NASA projects.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution, particularly the General Welfare Clause (Preamble). It promotes the general welfare by aiming to improve responses to wildfires, protecting property and lives. The Act does not appear to infringe upon any specific rights or liberties guaranteed by the Constitution or its amendments.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).