Findings; purpose

(a) Findings Congress finds the following: (1) Since 1956, the Department of Agriculture has operated a Federal Excess Personal Property program through which the Forest Service acquires excess property, primarily from the Department of Defense, and loans such property to State foresters for wildland and rural firefighting purposes. (2) State and local firefighting agencies have successfully used aircraft and related parts obtained through the Federal Excess Personal Property program to protect lives, property, and natural resources for extended periods, often exceeding 10 years. (3) After lengthy periods of use, maintenance, and investment by authorized users, uncertainty regarding ownership and disposal authority can create operational and planning difficulties. (4) Authorizing transfer of title to aircraft and serviceable aircraft parts after a qualifying period of responsible use will improve asset management, reduce administrative burden, and recognize the substantial investment made by State and local agencies in maintaining and operating such property. (b) Purpose The purpose of this Act is to authorize the Secretary of Agriculture to transfer title to certain aircraft and related parts loaned under the Federal Excess Personal Property program to authorized users that have demonstrated responsible stewardship over a sustained period.