DeLauro Votes To Boost Resources for America's Fire Departments

Washington, DC— Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-3) today voted 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, 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 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 critical funds by lowering matching requirements and modifying time commitments.

Fire departments and first responders around the country have been overstretched to respond to the increased threat of terrorism since September 11, 2001. They have taken on more responsibilities in protecting our citizens, and are thus even more in need of aid.

Last year, Connecticut received two types of awards, with approximately $7 million being provided for Assistance to Firefighters Grants, and nearly $4 million for Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grants. Congresswoman DeLauro said, "This bill provides critical funding to keep our citizens, homes, and neighborhoods safe. With state and local governments across the country facing falling revenues and shrinking budgets, these funds are essential to ensuring our local firefighters have the best training and equipment available. I'm proud to have cast my vote in support of this legislation."