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Congress·Enacted·S. 160

Wildfire Fighting: Selling Military Planes for Firefighting

Aerial Firefighting Enhancement Act of 2025

9 months ago·View on Congress.gov

Signed Into Law

This legislation has been enacted.

Legislative Progress

Senate
House
President
Law

Key Points

  • This law allows the Department of Defense to sell old military planes and spare parts to companies that fight wildfires. Instead of letting these planes sit unused, they will be used as "air tankers" to drop water or fire retardant on forest fires.
  • The new rules clarify that these planes can be used to drop water, not just chemical fire retardants. This gives firefighters more options when trying to put out blazes in different types of environments across the country.
  • To make sure these planes are used correctly, the law says they can only be used for wildfire fighting services. Companies cannot buy these discounted military planes and then use them for other private business or cargo transport.
  • This program is being extended for ten years, lasting until October 1, 2035. This long-term plan helps firefighting companies invest in their fleets, knowing they will have a steady supply of parts and planes to keep their operations running.

Milestones

7 milestones18 actions
Jun 12, 2025

Became Public Law No: 119-18.

Jun 12, 2025

Signed by President.

Jun 10, 2025House

Presented to President.

Jun 3, 2025House

Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.

Jun 3, 2025House

On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill Agreed to by voice vote. (text: CR H2390)

Related Bills

1 bill

Source Information

Document Type

Congressional Bill

Official Title

Aerial Firefighting Enhancement Act of 2025

Bill NumberS 160
Congress119th Congress
ChamberSenate
Latest ActionBecame Public Law No: 119-18.

Sponsor

Cosponsors

(8)
D: 5R: 3

Analysis generated by AI. Always verify with official sources.