If enacted, this bill would significantly influence the funding and logistics associated with search and rescue operations in wilderness areas. It prioritizes grantee applications from groups that manage locations with high visitor-to-resident ratios, thus ensuring that these operations are adequately funded in tourism-heavy regions. This could lead to improved safety protocols and resource availability for emergency services, potentially reducing rescue response times and enhancing overall outdoor safety.
Summary
House Bill 9165, also known as the Public Land Search and Rescue Act, aims to establish a grant program that allocates resources specifically for remote search and rescue activities on federal land managed by the Department of the Interior and the Department of Agriculture. The bill mandates that the Secretary of the Interior create this program within one year of its enactment, aiming to enhance the capabilities of emergency responders operating in remote areas frequented by visitors.
Contention
Notably, discussions around HB9165 may revolve around the allocation of federal funds and the operational definitions of 'remote search and rescue activities.' Critics might scrutinize the bill's prioritization criteria or express concerns over the adequacy of funds in meeting the varying needs of state and local jurisdictions. As the bill progresses, it will be important to assess how effectively it addresses the diverse challenges faced by emergency responders in different geographical contexts.
Public Land Search and Rescue Act This bill directs the Department of the Interior to establish a program to allocate resources to remote search and rescue activities conducted on lands under the jurisdiction of the Department of Agriculture or Interior. Interior may award a grant under the program to a state or a political subdivision to (1) purchase equipment and gear necessary for remote search and rescue activities, (2) reimburse such an eligible recipient for the cost of maintenance and repair of remote search and rescue equipment owned or leased by the recipient, and (3) reimburse state and local agencies responsible for remote search and rescue activities. Interior must prioritize an application from an eligible recipient who serves an area with a high ratio of visitors to residents. The federal share of assistance under the program shall be 75% of the cost of an eligible project.
Reforms the organizational structure for the Department of Transportation and Development including its duties, powers, and responsibilities of officers and employees (EN INCREASE SD EX See Note)