Today the U.S. House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology voted to pass legislation to protect the U.S. Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) and Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) programs. The bill was reported out of committee by a bipartisan vote of 29-0.
The Fire Grants and Safety Act (H.R. 4090) would:
- Authorize $750 million each for AFG and SAFER program for FY 2024 - FY 2028.
- Extend sunset for AFG & SAFER through September 30, 2030.
- Authorize $95 million for USFA for FY 2024 through FY 2028.
“I congratulate the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee for acting expeditiously to mark up H.R. 4090, the Fire Grants and Safety Act and protect the AFG and SAFER programs from termination next year,” said Chief Donna Black, EFO, CFO, the President and Chair of the Board of the International Association of Fire Chiefs. “The IAFC looks forward to continuing to work together to ensure the Fire Grants and Safety Act becomes law. By doing so, we can ensure that the fire service has the resources it needs to protect our communities and keep our firefighters safe.”