President Joe Biden supports the reauthorization of the Assistance to Firefighters and Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response grant programs, which are included in the Fire Grants and Safety Act.
The legislation, sponsored by Senator Gary Peters, would renew the grant programs that are administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency and provide $720 million in annual funding.
Additionally, the bill would increase funding for the U.S. Fire Administration from $75 million to $95 million if approved.
Upstate New York fire departments have received nearly $700 million since the program’s inception in the early 2000s, including $23 million in 2022. The Biden administration stated that these programs are vital in providing resources for firefighters, facilities, equipment, and training.
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