The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) and other leading fire service organizations are urging Congress to reconsider proposed funding cuts to two critical grant programs.
These programs, the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) and Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grants, are vital for equipping and staffing fire departments across the United States.
Impact on Fire Departments
On July 27, the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee voted in favor of legislation that, if passed, would reduce the funding for these essential programs.
The proposed fiscal year 2024 Department of Homeland Security Appropriations bill slashes these grants to $338 million each, representing a $22 million decrease from the previous fiscal year. In contrast, the House of Representatives has suggested maintaining the funding levels at $360 million each for FY 2024.
Essential Funding Requirements
The AFG and SAFER grants serve as a critical financial resource for fire and emergency medical services (EMS) departments nationwide.
They are particularly crucial as these departments face challenges, such as increased operational costs, expanding mission responsibilities, and workforce shortages.
Call to Action
A coalition of national fire service organizations — including the NVFC, International Association of Fire Chiefs, International Association of Fire Fighters, Congressional Fire Services Institute, National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, and National Fire Protection Association — has issued a joint statement urging Congress to reinstate full funding for these programs.
The organizations emphasize the importance of securing sustained support for departments that safeguard communities across the country.
The fire service community and stakeholders are encouraged to advocate for the protection of the AFG and SAFER grants by contacting their legislators. The NVFC’s Action Center provides a platform for sending messages to U.S. Senators and House Representatives, emphasizing the necessity of these grants for local fire and EMS departments.
