Co-Chairs Selected for Congressional Fire Caucus
Four members of Congress have been selected to the leadership of the Congressional Fire Services Caucus.
The new co-chairs include Senators Chris Dodd (D-Conn.) and Susan Collins (R-Maine) and Representatives Peter King (R-N.Y.) and Jo Ann Emerson (R-Mo.).
They were chosen by fellow members of the caucus to fill vacancies left by the recent election. National fire service leaders offered suggestions. However, the final decision was made by the elected officials, said Bill Webb, executive director of the Congressional Fire Services Institute (CFSI).
"We've been working closely with these people for quite a few years. They've always be receptive to our issues," Webb said Friday morning. "These were great choices."
The fire caucus leadership has been successful because there's no pressure associated with it. "The co-chairs' primary task is to educate their colleagues, to get the message across and build bi-partisan partnerships."
Webb said the four new leaders bring specific expertise to the table. Emerson understands the challenges facing rural firefighters, and Collins has been instrumental in previous legislative issues involving first responders.
"You can't replace a Weldon," Webb said, referring to fire caucus founder Curt Weldon, (R-Pa). "But, these four selected to fill the spots are perfect."
Other caucus leaders include Congressmen Steny Hoyer (D-Md.)and Rob Andrews (D-N.J.), and Senators John McCain (R-Ariz.)and Joe Biden (D-Del.)
Webb said obtaining more funding for the fire service tops the list of issues facing the new Congress.
The National Voluteer Fire Council also has listed funding as a priority. "It's important that the integrity of the program be maintained," said David Finger, director of government relations. "It's never been risk-based, and it never should be."
Finger said the money is vital for fire personnel to have the proper equipment and training to do their jobs.
The NVFC also will keep Congress informed on the importance of funding SAFER grants which pay for recruitment and retention, fire prevention and staffing.
Both Finger and Webb voiced concern with proposed budget cuts to the U.S. Fire Administration. They said it's important that the agency responsible for advanced training of first responders receive funding.