Bill to bolster firefighter safety

Reps. Pete Stauber (R-MN) and Jared Golden (D-ME) introduced Wednesday a measure designed to ensure fire station infrastructure nationwide enables firefighters to perform their duties efficiently and safely.

The Fire Station Infrastructure Safety Act directs the U.S. Fire Administration to create a report on the age and conditions of every fire station across the nation, as a means of aiding lawmakers in making more informed decisions regarding infrastructure investments.

“In times of crisis, our nation’s heroic firefighters are first on the scene, ready to help and oftentimes, willing to put their own lives in danger to save others,” Stauber said. “As a former law enforcement officer, I remain committed to ensuring the men and women who serve and protect our communities every day are adequately equipped to perform their jobs and return home safely, and I know this legislation will help do just that.”

Golden said from full-time professionals to volunteers, Maine firefighters go above and beyond for their communities.

“We must honor their service and keep them safe by making sure they have equipment and facilities they need to do their jobs,” he said. “I’m proud to work across the aisle with Congressman Stauber to take this important step to support American firefighters.”

Stauber and Golden are members of the Congressional Fire Services Caucus, which unites Republicans and Democrats in support of fire service legislation.