Rep. Gabe Vasquez Leads Bipartisan Aerial Firefighting Enhancement Act

February 4, 2025 Press Release WASHINGTON, D.C. – On February 4, 2025, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) introduced the bipartisan Aerial Firefighting Enhancement Act to strengthen the aerial wildfire suppression fleet and better combat the year-round threat of catastrophic wildfires. “In New Mexico, we know the devastating impact of wildfires all too well,” said Vasquez. “I’m proud to lead this bipartisan effort to invest in modern firefighting tools across the country as we face longer, more intense fire seasons. This bill will help strengthen our aerial firefighting capabilities, including supporting the Albuquerque-based 10 Tanker. I’m committed to fighting for the tools we need to keep New Mexicans safe.” The Aerial Firefighting Enhancement Act will reauthorize a program which allows the Department of Defense to sell excess aircraft and parts, which may be scarce in the free market, to entities who contract with the government to fight wildfires. The sale of these parts will help the U.S. maintain its existing aerial firefighting aircraft fleet. ###