U.S. Reps. Young Kim (R-CA) and Jason Crow (D-CO) have introduced a bill eyeing expanded wildfire technologies access.
The Wildfire Tech Demonstration, Evaluation, Modernization, and Optimization (DEMO) Act (HR 4235) would enable private entities to partner with federal land management agencies to test wildfire technologies alongside ongoing hazardous fuels mitigation activities and training.
“First responders should be able to access effective and innovative tools they need to prevent, detect, and contain wildfires,” Kim said. “From communications to remote sensing and safety equipment, emerging technologies have huge potential in improving wildfire response. The Wildfire Tech DEMO Act is a win-win for private entities looking to test their technologies at-scale and federal land management agencies working to deploy emerging technologies to help first responders address wildfires and keep communities safe. I thank Rep. Crow for introducing this with me and I will keep fighting to protect public safety.”
The four-year pilot program would be developed jointly by the Secretary of Agriculture and Secretary of the Interior.
“Colorado has been increasingly impacted by wildfires,” Crow said. “We need to find innovative technologies to fight wildfires and protect our families. Partnering private companies with public needs can help develop the best equipment and techniques for fighting massive wildfires that threaten our vital infrastructure, homes and communities.”
Information Technology Industry Council (ITI) President and CEO Jim Oxman said innovations like AI and quantum computing can positively transform critical services like emergency management. It is vital that relevant agencies can access these life-saving technologies.
“Congresswoman Kim’s Wildfire Technology Demonstration, Evaluation, Modernization, and Optimization (DEMO) Act will help the U.S. government harness the power of AI and other advanced technologies to not only help efficiently mitigate wildfires and natural disasters but also develop preventative strategies,” Oxman said.