U.S. Representative Young Kim (CA-40) has introduced the bipartisan Fire Innovation Unit Act, aiming to expand access to technologies that help prevent, detect, and mitigate wildfires. The bill is co-led by Representative Jason Crow (CO-06) and Senators Ben Ray Luján (NM) and John Curtis (UT). It proposes a pilot program where private companies can work directly with federal agencies to test new wildfire technologies during actual mitigation activities and training sessions. Oversight would be provided jointly by the Secretaries of Agriculture and the Interior.
Kim emphasized the importance of supporting first responders with advanced tools. “Too many in our community know the devastation of wildfires firsthand, and our first responders are already stretched thin,” said Rep. Young Kim. “Our firefighters deserve every tool available to save lives, protect property, and keep our communities safe. From early detection systems to AI-enabled modeling, innovative technologies can transform wildfire response. The Fire Innovation Unit Act leverages private-sector innovation so proven technologies can get into the field faster.”
Senator Luján also highlighted the urgency for new solutions: “As wildfires continue to wreak havoc on communities across New Mexico and the country, we must find innovative tools and technologies to combat the ever-changing threats posed by wildfires,” he said. “That’s why I’m proud to introduce my bipartisan Fire Innovation Unit Act, legislation that would allow us to develop and deploy innovative wildfire prevention and mitigation technologies. I look forward to working with my colleagues to get this legislation passed and boost our wildfire prevention and mitigation capabilities.”
Congressman Crow pointed out how wildfires have impacted Colorado: “Each year, wildfires continue to intensify and threaten the safety and livelihoods of far too many Coloradans all across our state,” he said. “It’s time we take action, and that’s why I’m glad to lead this bipartisan bill that will allow us to invest in technologies to better protect our communities.”
This is not Kim’s first attempt at such legislation; she previously introduced a similar measure called the Wildfire Technology DEMO Act in an earlier session of Congress.
Young Kim has represented California’s 40th district in Congress since 2021 after succeeding Gil Cisneros. She also served in the California State Assembly from 2014 to 2016. Born in Incheon, South Korea in 1962, Kim resides in La Habra and holds a business degree from the University of Southern California.
