President Bush's proposal to ax SAFER and slice FIRE Act grant funding again is drawing sharp criticism from the first responder community and politicians.
The proposed spending plan calls for $287 million for FIRE Act, nearly slicing it in half from what he asked for last year. The president also eliminated SAFER funds again.
However, Congress approved $547 million for FIRE Act, and $115 million for SAFER last year.
International Association of Fire Fighters General President Harold Schaitberger said Bush's plan "puts the safety and security of the American people at risk."
He pointed out that the proposed FIRE Act cuts involve a 45 percent decrease from last year, and 60 percent reduction since FY '04.
"It is incredible to me that in the wake of numerous major disasters and increased threats against our homeland, this administration would continue to shortchange our nation's first responders," he said in a prepared statement.
U.S.Sen. Barbara Mikulski, D-Md, also blasted Bush for ignoring the nation's first responders.
"The federal government has a responsibility to protect our protectors, providing them with the tools they need to do their hobs safer and smarter. Helping our firefighters is not a political issue, it is a safety issue," she said, adding that those who put their lives on the line should not be short-changed by their government.
The executive director of the Congressional Fire Service Institute called the proposal disturbing. "Here we go again," said Bill Webb. "We'll be contacting our allies on the Hill again."
Congressman Steny Hoyer, D-Md, also staunch supporter of first responders said he will fight to boost the funds.
"From the very beginning, I fought for these much needed increases to both the FIRE grant and SAFER programs. The fifth anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks were a stark reminder of our obligation to ensure that our nation's firefighters have the resources necessary to guarantee their own safety, and the safety of our communities."
He also pointed out the vital need for SAFER funds that helps pay for staffing.
"We ask far to many of our firefighters to risk their lives in our defense every day, too often with insufficient staffing, inadequate training and obsolete equipment."
