On an overwhelming bipartisan 393-13 vote, the House passed a bill today sponsored by New Jersey Reps. Tom Kean Jr. (R-Westfield) and Bill Pascrell (D-Paterson) that re-ups a number of key firefighter grant programs.
The bill, the Fire Grants and Safety Act, reauthorizes the U.S. Fire Administration, the Assistance to Firefighter Grants (AFG), and the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) Grant; it also increases funding for the Fire Administration.
“As a former volunteer firefighter, I know the hardship and sacrifices that firefighters make daily to quickly respond to emergencies,” Kean said in remarks on the House floor. “This bipartisan and bicameral piece of legislation demonstrates our firm commitment to the safety and the well-being of our firefighters, empowering them to overcome challenges and fulfill their mission of safeguarding our communities.”