Fire Suppression and Response Funding Assurance Act

12/14/2023, 9:22 PM

Summary of Bill S 479

Bill 118 s 479, also known as the Fire Suppression and Response Funding Assurance Act, is a piece of legislation currently being considered by the US Congress. The main purpose of this bill is to provide funding assurance for fire suppression and response efforts in the United States.

The bill aims to address the issue of inadequate funding for fire suppression and response activities, which have become increasingly important due to the rise in wildfires and other natural disasters in recent years. By providing a dedicated source of funding for these efforts, the bill seeks to ensure that first responders have the resources they need to effectively combat fires and protect communities.

One key provision of the bill is the establishment of a Fire Suppression and Response Funding Assurance Fund, which would be used to provide financial assistance to states and localities for fire suppression and response activities. This fund would be replenished annually to ensure that it remains adequately funded. Additionally, the bill includes measures to improve coordination and communication between federal, state, and local agencies involved in fire suppression and response efforts. This includes the development of standardized protocols and training programs to ensure that all responders are well-prepared to handle emergency situations. Overall, Bill 118 s 479 aims to address the funding challenges facing fire suppression and response efforts in the United States and improve the effectiveness of these critical activities. It is currently being debated in Congress, and its passage would represent a significant step towards ensuring the safety and security of communities across the country.

Congressional Summary of S 479

Fire Suppression and Response Funding Assurance Act

This bill sets the federal cost share of fire management assistance at 75% of the eligible cost of such assistance and provides for a state or local government to use such assistance for the predeployment of assets and resources.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) must complete a rulemaking to provide criteria for the circumstances under which it may recommend that the President increase the federal cost share.

Current Status of Bill S 479

Bill S 479 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since February 16, 2023. Bill S 479 was introduced during Congress 118 and was introduced to the Senate on February 16, 2023.  Bill S 479's most recent activity was Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 74. as of May 16, 2023

Bipartisan Support of Bill S 479

Total Number of Sponsors
1
Democrat Sponsors
1
Republican Sponsors
0
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
10
Democrat Cosponsors
8
Republican Cosponsors
2
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill S 479

Primary Policy Focus

Emergency Management

Potential Impact Areas

Administrative law and regulatory proceduresDisaster relief and insuranceFederal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)FiresForests, forestry, treesNatural disastersState and local financeState and local government operations

Alternate Title(s) of Bill S 479

Fire Suppression and Response Funding Assurance ActFire Suppression and Response Funding Assurance ActFire Suppression and Response Funding Assurance ActA bill to modify the fire management assistance cost share, and for other purposes.
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