Building on companion legislation in the Senate, a new bill introduced into the House last week seeks to boost federal resources for local fire departments throughout the United States and reauthorize existing funds for staffing, equipment, training, and emergency services.
The Fire Grants and Safety Act was introduced by U.S. Reps. Jared Golden (D-ME), Carlos Giménez (R-FL), Dan Kildee (D-MI) and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA). Primarily it targets three initiatives for reauthorization: the United States Fire Administration (USFA), the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program, and the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant program. All three are set to expire next year, leaving recruitment drives, training, retention, and outfitting efforts in jeopardy.
“The Mainers who make up our fire departments put their lives on the line to protect their neighbors,” Golden said. “The federal government has a responsibility to ensure they have what they need to do their job and do it well. Increasing access to these resources – especially at a time of staff shortages throughout Maine – is just common sense. I’m proud to work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to help advance this funding for departments in the Second District and across the country.”
Funding would be extended to these efforts through FY 2030.
Staffing has remained an issue for firefighting, especially as many departments rely on volunteer workers. This can become particularly pronounced in rural areas, with smaller communities – and thus, smaller pools of potential firefighters – from which to draw.
“As a former firefighter and Chief of the City of Miami Fire Rescue Department, I know firsthand how crucial these vital programs and resources are to adequately prepare firefighters to respond to emergencies and protect our communities,” Giménez said. “In the past, both Monroe County and Miami-Dade County have benefited immensely from such initiatives.”
The legislation has been backed by groups such as the Professional Fire Fighters of Maine, the International Association of Fire Chiefs, and more. Senate companion legislation was introduced by U.S. Sens. Gary Peters (D-MI) and Rob Portman (R-OH) in September.
The bill is companion legislation to a bipartisan bill (S.4882) introduced in the Senate by Senators Gary Peters (D-MI) and Rob Portman (R-OH).