Firehouse.Com News
Craig Sharman, National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) Government Affairs
Representative, has reported that on July 19, the Senate Appropriations
Committee approved
the FY 2002 VA, HUD and Independent Agencies Appropriations Bill, which
included $150 million to continue the FEMA Assistance to Firefighters Grant
Program next year.
Senate VA, HUD and Independent Agencies Appropriations Subcommittee Chairman
Barbara A. Mikulski (D-MD), a long-time supporter of the fire and emergency
services, was instrumental in securing the 50% increase in funding.
"Although the program is authorized to receive up to $300 million in fiscal
year 2002, the NVFC is pleased that the Senate Appropriations Committee has
substantially increased its commitment to ensuring the safety of
firefighters and the communities they protect," said NVFC Chairman Philip C.
Stittleburg.
Stittleburg added, "The Committee has recognized the important partnership
role
the Federal Government can play in helping to fund needy fire departments."
Earlier this week, the House Appropriations Committee approved a their
version of the FY 2002 VA, HUD and Independent Agencies spending bill, which
included only $100 million for the program. Both bills now head to the full
House and
Senate for their approval before they go to a Conference Committee to work
out the differences between the two versions.
In the first year of the program, more than 19,000 fire departments applied
for close to $3 billion in assistance, although only $100 million was
available.
This year's grants can be used for personal protective equipment, apparatus,
training, firefighting equipment, public education and wellness and fitness
programs.
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