Bill > HR956

This bill amends the Wildfire Suppression Aircraft Transfer Act of 1996 to extend and enhance the Department of Defense's ability to sell aircraft and parts for wildfire suppression purposes. Specifically, the bill makes several key changes: it expands the language to include both fire retardant and water for suppression efforts, clarifies that sold aircraft can only be used for wildfire suppression services, and extends the authorization period for these aircraft transfers from the current timeframe to a new period beginning October 1, 2025, and ending October 1, 2035. The legislation aims to support aerial firefighting capabilities by providing a clear, decade-long mechanism for the Department of Defense to transfer surplus aircraft to agencies and organizations involved in combating wildfires. By updating the existing law, the bill seeks to ensure that fire suppression teams have access to necessary aerial resources to help prevent and fight wildfires more effectively.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Government Affairs

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/956/all-info