ACERO Act
2/11/2025, 1:04 PMSummary of Bill HR 390
Bill 119 HR 390, also known as the "Utilizing Advanced Capabilities for Emergency Response to Operations Act," aims to enhance the effectiveness of aerial responses to wildfires by utilizing the Advanced Capabilities for Emergency Response to Operations project of NASA. This bill seeks to leverage the advanced technologies and resources available through NASA to improve the coordination and efficiency of firefighting efforts during wildfires.The bill emphasizes the importance of utilizing cutting-edge technologies, such as satellite imagery and remote sensing capabilities, to enhance situational awareness and response times during wildfire incidents. By tapping into NASA's expertise and resources, the bill aims to provide firefighters with the tools and information needed to more effectively combat wildfires and protect communities at risk.
In addition to improving aerial responses to wildfires, the bill also includes provisions for other purposes related to emergency response operations. These may include enhancing communication systems, coordinating resources, and implementing best practices for emergency response efforts. Overall, Bill 119 HR 390 seeks to enhance the capabilities of emergency responders and firefighters in combating wildfires by leveraging the advanced technologies and resources available through NASA's Advanced Capabilities for Emergency Response to Operations project. By utilizing these resources, the bill aims to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of aerial responses to wildfires, ultimately helping to protect lives and property during wildfire incidents.
Congressional Summary of HR 390
Advanced Capabilities for Emergency Response Operations Act or the ACERO Act
This bill provides statutory authority for the Advanced Capabilities for Emergency Response Operations (ACERO) project. The ACERO project conducts research and development activities regarding aerial response to wildfires using uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) and other advanced aviation technologies. It is administered by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).
The bill directs the ACERO project to address airspace management and deconfliction during wildfire response efforts, including through real-time information sharing among response teams and the development of a platform to provide situational awareness of aerial assets. The bill also directs the ACERO project to establish a multiagency concept of operations to facilitate the coordination of aerial wildfire response among federal, state, and local government agencies. NASA must consult with other federal agencies and departments to avoid duplication of these efforts.
NASA generally may not procure UAS manufactured or assembled by specified foreign entities, including entities domiciled in or controlled by China, for use by the ACERO project.
