H.R.836 - Emergency Wildfire Fighting Technology Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 836, the Emergency Wildfire Fighting Technology Act of 2025, mandates the Secretary of Agriculture and the Secretary of the Interior to evaluate the use of the container aerial firefighting system (CAFFS) for mitigating and suppressing wildfires. This evaluation is to 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 both the House and Senate within 120 days of the Act's enactment.
Expected Effects
The immediate effect will be the commencement of an evaluation process regarding CAFFS technology. The long-term effect depends on the outcome of the evaluation and subsequent decisions regarding the implementation and funding of CAFFS. Ultimately, this could lead to improved wildfire suppression capabilities.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced wildfire suppression capabilities through the potential adoption of CAFFS.
- Improved protection of communities and natural resources from wildfires.
- More efficient allocation of resources for wildfire management.
- Potential for reduced costs associated with wildfire suppression in the long term.
- Increased safety for firefighters through the use of advanced technology.
Potential Disadvantages
- The evaluation process itself may incur costs.
- There is no guarantee that the evaluation will lead to the adoption of CAFFS.
- The report is due 120 days after enactment, which may not be enough time for a thorough evaluation.
- If CAFFS is adopted, there may be initial costs associated with implementation and training.
- The effectiveness of CAFFS may vary depending on the specific wildfire conditions.
Constitutional Alignment
The Act aligns with the constitutional mandate to "provide for the common defence" and "promote the general Welfare," as outlined in the Preamble. Congress's power to legislate on matters related to public lands and natural resources is also supported by Article I, Section 8, which grants Congress the power to make all laws which shall be necessary and proper for carrying into execution the foregoing powers, and all other powers vested by this Constitution in the government of the United States, or in any department or officer thereof.
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).