H.R.836 - Emergency Wildfire Fighting Technology Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.836, the Emergency Wildfire Fighting Technology Act of 2025, directs the Secretary of Agriculture and the Secretary of the Interior to evaluate the use of container aerial firefighting systems (CAFFS) for wildfire mitigation. The evaluation must be conducted in consultation with the National Interagency Aviation Committee and the Interagency Airtanker Board. A report detailing the evaluation's results must be submitted to the relevant committees in the House and Senate within 120 days of the Act's enactment.
Expected Effects
The bill aims to improve wildfire suppression efforts by assessing the effectiveness of CAFFS technology. This could lead to increased investment in and deployment of CAFFS if the evaluation is favorable. Ultimately, this could result in more effective wildfire control and reduced damage from wildfires.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced wildfire suppression capabilities.
- Potential reduction in property damage and loss of life from wildfires.
- Improved resource allocation for wildfire management.
- Support for technological innovation in firefighting.
- Increased safety for firefighters.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential costs associated with implementing CAFFS technology if the evaluation is favorable.
- Possible delays in wildfire response if the evaluation process is lengthy.
- Risk that the evaluation may not accurately reflect the real-world effectiveness of CAFFS.
- Limited scope, as it only focuses on one specific technology.
- The evaluation report may not lead to concrete action.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the General Welfare Clause of the Constitution, as it seeks to protect citizens and property from the threat of wildfires. Congress has the power to enact legislation necessary and proper for executing its enumerated powers, including managing federal lands and providing for the common defense against natural disasters. Article I, Section 8, Clause 1 grants Congress the power to lay and collect taxes, duties, imposts and excises, to pay the debts and provide for the common defense and general welfare of the United States.
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).