A bill to amend the Wildfire Suppression Aircraft Transfer Act of 1996 to reauthorize the sale by the Department of Defense of aircraft and parts for wildfire suppression purposes, and for other purposes.

2/4/2025, 11:56 AM

Summary of Bill S 160

Bill 119 s 160, also known as the Wildfire Suppression Aircraft Transfer Act, is a proposed piece of legislation that aims to amend the existing Wildfire Suppression Aircraft Transfer Act of 1996. The main purpose of this bill is to reauthorize the Department of Defense to sell aircraft and parts specifically for the purpose of wildfire suppression.

The bill seeks to address the ongoing issue of wildfires in the United States by allowing the Department of Defense to continue providing resources for firefighting efforts. By reauthorizing the sale of aircraft and parts for wildfire suppression purposes, the government can ensure that firefighting agencies have access to the necessary equipment to effectively combat wildfires and protect communities.

In addition to reauthorizing the sale of aircraft and parts, the bill also includes provisions for other purposes related to wildfire suppression. These additional measures may include funding for training programs, research initiatives, and other efforts to improve wildfire prevention and response strategies. Overall, Bill 119 s 160 is a crucial piece of legislation that aims to support wildfire suppression efforts in the United States by reauthorizing the sale of aircraft and parts for this specific purpose. By providing firefighting agencies with the resources they need, the government can better protect communities and natural resources from the devastating impacts of wildfires.

Congressional Summary of S 160

Aerial Firefighting Enhancement Act of 2025

This bill reauthorizes the Department of Defense to sell its excess aircraft and aircraft parts that are acceptable for commercial sale for wildfire suppression purposes. Such authority begins October 1, 2025, and ends October 1, 2035.

The bill also provides that such aircraft may be used to deliver water by air in order to suppress wildfire (the previous authority only provided for the delivery of fire retardant).

The bill removes the previous limitation on providing international wildfire suppression assistance with such purchased aircraft.

Current Status of Bill S 160

Bill S 160 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since January 21, 2025. Bill S 160 was introduced during Congress 119 and was introduced to the Senate on January 21, 2025. Bill S 160's most recent activity was Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services. as of January 21, 2025

Bipartisan Support of Bill S 160

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Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill S 160

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Alternate Title(s) of Bill S 160

A bill to amend the Wildfire Suppression Aircraft Transfer Act of 1996 to reauthorize the sale by the Department of Defense of aircraft and parts for wildfire suppression purposes, and for other purposes.A bill to amend the Wildfire Suppression Aircraft Transfer Act of 1996 to reauthorize the sale by the Department of Defense of aircraft and parts for wildfire suppression purposes, and for other purposes.

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