U.S. Rep. Young Kim (R-CA) on June 21 sponsored a bipartisan bill that would establish a federal test-bed pilot program designed to expand access to the newest and most effective wildfire technologies.
“First responders should be able to access effective and innovative tools they need to prevent, detect, and contain wildfires,” Rep. Kim said. “From communications to remote sensing and safety equipment, emerging technologies have huge potential in improving wildfire response.”
Specifically, the Wildfire Tech Demonstration, Evaluation, Modernization, and Optimization (DEMO) Act, H.R. 4235, which is cosponsored by U.S. Rep. Jason Crow (D-CO), would allow private entities to partner with federal land management agencies to test wildfire technologies alongside ongoing hazardous fuels mitigation activities and training, according to a bill summary provided by Rep. Kim’s office.
The four-year pilot program would be developed jointly by the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture and the U.S. Secretary of the Interior, the summary says.
“The Wildfire Tech DEMO Act is a win-win for private entities looking to test their technologies at-scale and federal land management agencies working to deploy emerging technologies to help first responders address wildfires and keep communities safe,” said Rep. Kim. “I thank Rep. Crow for introducing this with me, and I will keep fighting to protect public safety.”
Dan Munsey, fire chief for the San Bernardino County (Calif.) Fire Department and the Information Technology Industry Council endorsed H.R. 4235.
“We need to find innovative technologies to fight wildfires and protect our families,” added Rep. Crow. “Partnering private companies with public needs can help develop the best equipment and techniques for fighting massive wildfires that threaten our vital infrastructure, homes, and communities.”