Antelope Valley Today

Representatives Mike Garcia (CA-27) and Jennifer McClellan (D-VA) have introduced the Advanced Capabilities for Emergency Response to Operations (ACERO) Act, a bipartisan bill aimed at enhancing the support for firefighters in their mission to protect communities from wildfires.

Rep. Garcia emphasized the importance of the bill, stating, “This is a game-changer for both our firefighters and communities vulnerable to wildfires.” He further stressed the necessity of drones in firefighting efforts, noting, “I’ve had countless conversations with firefighters in my district who have the same message: We need drones.”

Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan highlighted the urgency of improving response capabilities, especially in the face of increasing severity and frequency of extreme weather events. She stated, “As extreme weather events increase in severity and frequency, we must continue to strengthen our ability to respond effectively.”

The ACERO Act aims to expand the existing ACERO project at NASA, focusing on advancing the use of drones in wildfire responses. The legislation will facilitate research and development of new technologies to enhance the coordination of manned and unmanned aerial vehicles in firefighting operations.

By introducing the ACERO Act, Representatives Garcia and McClellan seek to provide critical support to firefighters nationwide and ensure the protection of vulnerable communities from the threat of wildfires.