U.S. Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) on Monday proposed bipartisan, bicameral legislation that would create a $750 million grant program within the Federal Emergency Management Administration to modify, upgrade, and construct fire and EMS department facilities.
“Those who serve as firefighters throughout Alaska not only deserve functional facilities but need them to help them respond quickly and safely to emergencies,” Sen. Murkowski said. “Unfortunately, many fire stations in our state are in dire need of repair and updating.”
Funding under the Facilitating Investments Required for Emergency Services To All Towns In Our Nation Act, S. 977, also known as the FIRE STATION Act, could be used to build, rebuild, or renovate facilities; upgrade existing facilities to install exhaust emission control systems; install backup power systems; upgrade or replace environmental control systems, such as HVAC systems; remove or remediate mold; construct or modify living quarters for personnel; and upgrade fire and EMS stations or build new stations to meet modern building codes and standards, according to a bill summary provided by the senator’s office.
U.S. Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) on March 27 sponsored S. 977 with seven original cosponsors, including Sen. Murkowski, who is the lead original cosponsor. U.S. Reps. Bill Pascrell (D-NJ), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), and Mike Bost (R-IL) on the same day introduced their chamber’s version, H.R. 1814.
“I’m joining my colleagues in this bipartisan measure, the FIRE STATION Act, to invest in our fire stations and to support the people that are always there for our communities when we need them most,” said Sen. Murkowski.
The measure has been endorsed by the International Association of Firefighters, the International Association of Fire Chiefs, the National Volunteer Fire Council, the Congressional Fire Services Institute, and the National Fire Protection Association.
“Our firefighters deserve the best possible facilities so they can be ready with everything they need to spring into action when duty calls. Yet nearly half of the fire stations across America require major repairs, with some even posing serious health hazards to the men and women who protect our communities,” Sen. Van Hollen said. “This bipartisan bill will unlock more funding to ensure our fire and EMS heroes have modern, safe, and mission-ready facilities.”