U.S. Sens. Gary Peters (D-MI) and Rob Portman (R-OH) recently applauded the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee for advancing their legislation increasing federal for local fire departments nationwide.
The Fire Grants and Safety Act reauthorizes Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) grant programs local fire departments use to address staffing needs, purchase equipment, develop fire training and education programs and improve emergency medical services.
Additionally, the legislation reauthorizes the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant program, the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program, and the United States Fire Administration (USFA) fire stations rely on critical resources and information. The bill now moves to the full Senate for consideration.
“By reauthorizing these critical federal programs, we can help fire stations in Michigan and across the country support brave and courageous firefighters as they work to save lives and safeguard our communities,” Peters, Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee chairman, said. “This legislation will ensure fire departments have the tools and resources they need to protect people from fires and emergencies. I urge my colleagues to pass this common sense, bipartisan bill as soon as possible.”
Portman, Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee ranking member, said firefighters throughout Ohio and across our nation risk their lives every day to protect and serve all.
“I’m pleased the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee has passed this bipartisan legislation because it will ensure that our nation’s fire and emergency medical services have access to much-needed federal grants and resources to better prepare for and respond to emergency medical services and fire hazards,” he said.