Legislation reauthorizing firefighter assistance signed into law

On Tuesday, legislation to extend federal programs aimed at helping to support local fire departments across the country was signed into law.

The Fire Grants and Safety Act, authored by U.S. Sens. Gary Peters (D-MI), Susan Collins (R-ME), Tom Carper (D-DE), and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), reauthorizes the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant program, the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program, and the United States Fire Administration (USFA), which are used by local fire departments to address staffing needs, purchase equipment, develop fire training and improve emergency medical services. Officials said the new law would ensure that fire departments continue to have access to that funding.

“Firefighters in Michigan and across the nation risk their lives every day to protect our communities,” Peters, chair of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, said. “This new law is a testament to our nation’s commitment to these brave individuals. By reauthorizing these critical programs, we are not just funding fire departments – we are investing in communities across America and ensuring our firefighters have the resources they need to return home safely.”

The legislation reauthorizes SAFER, AFG, and the USFA until 2028, and reauthorizes $95 million for USFA, a nearly $20 million increase from current level.

“I thank Congress for passing this critical legislation,” said John S. Butler, president and Board Chair of the International Association of Fire Chiefs. “I would like to thank the leadership of the House and Senate; the Congressional Fire Services Caucus leadership; and Senator Peters and the leadership of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee and the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee for their dedication to passing this legislation. This legislation confirms our nation’s commitment to firefighters and EMS personnel across the nation, who provide lifesaving service to their communities every day.”

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