U.S. Senate Passes Aerial Firefighting Enhancement Act, Awaits House Approval

The U.S. Senate has unanimously passed the Aerial Firefighting Enhancement Act of 2025, aimed at enhancing wildfire response capabilities through improved access to aerial firefighting resources. The legislation, supported by Senators Martin Heinrich, Tim Sheehy, Mark Kelly, and Alex Padilla, seeks to reauthorize the Department of Defense to sell excess aircraft and parts for wildfire suppression, addressing the growing frequency and intensity of wildfires across the West. Senator Heinrich emphasized the urgent need for reliable equipment, as current aircraft parts are scarce. The bill updates the Wildfire Suppression Aircraft Transfer Act of 1996, which had lapsed in 2005 and 2017, to establish a permanent framework for acquiring necessary firefighting tools. With early-season wildfires already proving costly, the act reflects a proactive approach to firefighting strategy. The bill now awaits approval from the House.