Bill 118 hr 369, also known as the NIST Wildland Fire Communications and Information Dissemination Act, aims to improve communication and information dissemination during wildland fires in the United States. The bill specifically focuses on enhancing the capabilities of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to research and develop technologies that will help first responders and communities better respond to and manage wildland fires.
The bill directs NIST to collaborate with relevant federal agencies, state and local governments, and other stakeholders to identify and address gaps in communication and information sharing during wildland fires. This includes developing standards and best practices for communication systems, data sharing, and interoperability among different agencies and jurisdictions.
Additionally, the bill requires NIST to conduct research and testing on emerging technologies, such as drones, satellite imagery, and artificial intelligence, to improve situational awareness and decision-making during wildland fires. NIST will also be responsible for providing technical assistance and training to first responders and other stakeholders on the use of these technologies.
Overall, the NIST Wildland Fire Communications and Information Dissemination Act seeks to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of wildland fire response efforts by improving communication and information sharing among all involved parties.