H.R.753 - Fire Information and Reaction Enhancement Act of 2025; FIRE Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.753, the FIRE Act of 2025, aims to improve wildfire forecasting and detection by directing the Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to maintain a program focused on these areas. The bill emphasizes collaboration with the weather industry and academic entities. It also authorizes the creation of weather research testbeds to develop enhanced detection and forecast capabilities, with an appropriation of $15,000,000 for fiscal year 2026.
Expected Effects
The bill's enactment would likely lead to more accurate and timely wildfire forecasts and warnings. This would reduce loss of life, property damage, and economic disruption caused by wildfires. The establishment of weather research testbeds would foster innovation in wildfire detection and forecasting technologies.
Potential Benefits
- Improved prediction of wildfire intensification and spread.
- Enhanced forecasting and communication of smoke dispersion.
- More effective information dissemination and risk communication to the public.
- Earlier detection of wildfires, enabling quicker containment.
- Development and deployment of advanced satellite detection products.
Potential Disadvantages
- The bill's effectiveness depends on the successful collaboration between NOAA, the weather industry, and academic entities.
- The authorized appropriation of $15,000,000 may be insufficient to fully achieve the program's goals.
- The bill does not address the underlying causes of wildfires, such as climate change and land management practices.
- The bill may lead to increased government spending, potentially impacting the federal budget.
- The bill does not explicitly address the potential impact on private property rights.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution's general welfare clause, as it aims to protect citizens and property from the dangers of wildfires. Article I, Section 8 grants Congress the power to allocate funds for the general welfare. The establishment of a program to improve wildfire forecasting and detection falls within the scope of promoting the general welfare. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
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).