Fire Grants and Safety Act: Federal funding secured for fire service programs

As reported by the IAFC and CFSI, President Joe Biden signed the Fire Grants and Safety Act (S. 870) into law on July 9th at the White House.

This legislation secures federal funding for the AFG and SAFER grant programs through FY2028 and delays the sunset date to September 30, 2030.

The law authorizes $750 million each for the AFG and SAFER grant programs from FY2024 through FY2028.

It also includes $95 million for the USFA to fund NERIS, develop EMS programs, and investigate major fire causes to establish best prevention practices.

The Act also promotes the development of nuclear energy in the United States.

Legislative support and collaboration

The passage of the Fire Grants and Safety Act was a result of bipartisan efforts and extensive collaboration.

Key legislative supporters included leaders from the House and Senate, the Congressional Fire Services Caucus, the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, and the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee.

International Association of Fire Chiefs President John S.Butler, who attended the signing, stated: “This law reaffirms our nation’s deep commitment to the fire service and EMS.

“The passage of the Fire Grants and Safety Act represents a collective, bipartisan effort on the part of congressional representatives, the IAFC membership and board, fellow professional associations, and fire service leaders from all over the country.”

Ongoing advocacy and future efforts

The CFSI highlighted the two-year advocacy efforts by its members and the National Advisory Committee, which were crucial in reauthorizing the AFG and SAFER programs.

The collaboration among various national organizations and congressional members was essential in overcoming legislative hurdles and ensuring the bill’s passage.

CFSI will continue to support robust funding for these programs and the USFA.

Recently, CFSI worked with Representatives Bill Pascrell, Mike Bost, and Brian Fitzpatrick to add $7.5 million to the AFG and SAFER funding lines in the House FY2025 DHS Appropriations Bill.

This amendment was accepted, and the bill passed the House at the end of June.