National Fire Service Organizations Oppose Proposed Cuts to AFG and SAFER Grants

August 8, 2023

The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) joins with other national fire service organizations to strongly oppose proposed cuts to the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) and Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grants. These programs provide critical funding to help fire departments secure needed equipment, training, and staffing to adequately protect their communities.

On July 27, the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee voted to report legislation to cut these vital programs. The FY 2024 Department of Homeland Security Appropriations bill would cut these programs to $338 million each, a $22 million reduction from FY 2023. The House version of the bill would maintain funding for these programs at $360 million each in FY 2024.

The AFG and SAFER grants provide a lifeline to fire and EMS departments across the nation as they face challenges such as expanding missions, increased costs, and staffing shortages. The NVFC, International Association of Fire Chiefs, International Association of Fire Fighters, Congressional Fire Services Institute, National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, and National Fire Protection Association have released a joint statement calling upon Congress to restore this critical funding. Read statement here.

Take action by letting your Senators and Representatives know to protect AFG and SAFER. Use the NVFC’s Action Center to easily send a message to your legislators now.