Bill seeks to bolster firefighter infrastructure

Reps. Jared Golden (D-ME) and Pete Stauber (R-MN) introduced last week a measure designed to enhance the nation’s fire station infrastructure.

The Fire Station Infrastructure Safety Act provides data on the age and conditions of every fire station in the country, which the legislators maintain is a crucial step for Congress to develop policies to update aging fire station infrastructure.

“From the full-time professionals to the volunteers, firefighters all over Maine go above and beyond for their communities,” Golden said. “We should honor their service and keep them safe by making sure they have the equipment and facilities they need to do their jobs. I’m proud to work across the aisle with Congressman Stauber to take this important step to support American firefighters.”

Golden and Stauber are members of the Congressional Fire Services Caucus.

“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.”

John Martell, president of the Professional Fire Fighters of Maine, supported the legislation, noting the need for updated stations and systems for firefighters around the country.

“Fighting fires for a living is tough work,” he said. “We’re proud to do it, but our jobs get even more demanding when the fire stations we live and work in are falling apart. Congress needs to take a serious look at how it can help fire crews in Maine and across our country update and improve their fire stations and I’m glad to see Congressman Golden leading the way.”