Wildfire Wireless Resiliency Act

5/11/2023, 3:45 PM

Summary of Bill HR 1073

Bill 117 hr 1073, also known as the Wildfire Wireless Resiliency Act, aims to improve the resiliency of wireless communication networks during wildfires and other emergencies. The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on February 15, 2021, by Representative Anna Eshoo from California.

The Wildfire Wireless Resiliency Act seeks to address the challenges faced by first responders and residents during wildfires when communication networks are often disrupted. The bill proposes several measures to enhance the reliability and effectiveness of wireless communication systems in high-risk areas.

One key provision of the bill is the establishment of a grant program to support the deployment of backup power sources for cell towers and other wireless infrastructure in wildfire-prone regions. This funding would help ensure that communication networks remain operational during emergencies, allowing for better coordination and response efforts. Additionally, the Wildfire Wireless Resiliency Act calls for the development of best practices and guidelines for wireless providers to follow in order to improve network resiliency. This includes recommendations for backup power systems, network hardening, and coordination with emergency response agencies. Overall, the goal of Bill 117 hr 1073 is to enhance the ability of wireless communication networks to withstand the challenges posed by wildfires and other natural disasters. By improving the resiliency of these systems, the bill aims to better protect public safety and facilitate more effective emergency response efforts.

Congressional Summary of HR 1073

Wildfire Wireless Resiliency Act

This bill exempts from certain environmental or historic preservation review requirements a project that replaces or makes improvements to a communications facility following a governor-declared major disaster or emergency related to a wildfire.

Specifically, the bill exempts these projects from any requirement to prepare an environmental assessment or environmental impact statement. These projects are also exempt from considerations about the effect they will have on any historic property.

Current Status of Bill HR 1073

Bill HR 1073 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since February 15, 2021. Bill HR 1073 was introduced during Congress 117 and was introduced to the House on February 15, 2021.  Bill HR 1073's most recent activity was Referred to the Subcommittee on Environment and Climate Change. as of February 16, 2021

Bipartisan Support of Bill HR 1073

Total Number of Sponsors
1
Democrat Sponsors
0
Republican Sponsors
1
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
2
Democrat Cosponsors
0
Republican Cosponsors
2
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill HR 1073

Primary Policy Focus

Science, Technology, Communications

Potential Impact Areas

Disaster relief and insuranceEnvironmental assessment, monitoring, researchEnvironmental regulatory proceduresFiresForests, forestry, treesHistoric sites and heritage areasState and local government operationsTelephone and wireless communication

Alternate Title(s) of Bill HR 1073

Wildfire Wireless Resiliency ActTo provide that construction, rebuilding, or hardening of communications facilities following a major emergency declared by a Governor relating to a wildfire are not subject to requirements to prepare certain environmental or historical preservation reviews.Wildfire Wireless Resiliency Act
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