Heinrich Boosts Resources For New Mexico's Fire Departments

Press Release

U.S. Representative Martin Heinrich cosponsored a bill to provide local firefighters with the tools and resources they need to prevent and fight fires, and keep our communities safe. At a time when many towns and cities are facing budget shortfalls and cuts to basic services, H.R. 3791, the Fire Grants Reauthorization Act, invests in vital firefighter assistance programs that allow local fire departments to provide training, purchase equipment and vehicles, and hire personnel. The bill passed the House by a vote of 395-31.

"State and local governments may be facing falling revenues and shrinking budgets, but the critical funding fire departments need to the safeguard our families from potential emergencies should not be compromised," said Heinrich. "This bill ensures that our local firefighters--whether they are career or volunteer--have the best training and equipment at their disposal to keep our communities safe."

State and local governments may be facing falling revenues and shrinking budgets, but they should never have to choose between adequately trained personnel and functioning equipment.

The bipartisan legislation authorizes a total of $2.2 billion a year in grants for local municipalities to upgrade crucial equipment and maintain adequate levels of personnel. It also makes it easier for local fire departments to access these funds by lowering matching requirements and modifying time commitments.

Ever since the 9/11 terrorist attacks, fire departments and first responders across the country have been overstretched -- taking on even more responsibilities to respond to possible terrorist attacks, as well as preventing and fighting fires. This legislation will give our fire departments the critical resources they need to address these threats.

The bill passed the House by a vote of 395-31 yesterday, and has the support of the International Association of Fire Chiefs, the International Association of Fire Fighters, the National Volunteer Fire Council, the National Fire Protection Association, and the Congressional Fire Services Institute.

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