In a move to aid fire departments in Rhode Island and across the nation, the U.S. Senate has passed the Fire Grants and Safety Act. The legislation now awaits President Joe Biden’s signature to become law.
The bill, strongly supported by U.S. Senator Jack Reed, aims to extend crucial federal programs that provide financial support to local fire departments. Specifically, it reauthorizes the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant program, the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program, and the United States Fire Administration (USFA) through 2028. These programs were set to expire this year and are essential for addressing staffing needs, purchasing equipment, developing training and education programs, and improving emergency medical services.