Tell Congress to Reauthorize AFG, SAFER, and USFA

The authorization for the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG), Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant, and the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) lapsed on September 30, 2023.

These programs provide critical resources and assistance to the fire and emergency medical service departments that protect our communities. AFG enables departments to obtain the equipment, vehicles, and training they need to do their jobs safely and effectively. SAFER supports recruitment, retention, and hiring efforts so departments have enough staffing to respond to emergencies. USFA is the federal agency that assists the fire service in preparing for, preventing, mitigating, and responding to all hazards.

Without these programs, public safety will suffer, leaving communities across the U.S. more vulnerable when disaster strikes. Fire departments responded to more than 36.6 million calls in 2021, and that number grows every year. The cost of equipment and vehicles far exceeds what most departments can afford strictly from local tax revenues and fundraisers like pancakes breakfasts; training requirements continue to increase as community needs grow; and staffing shortages are hitting departments across the nation, both volunteer and career. AFG, SAFER, and USFA are vital to help offset these challenges and keep communities safe.

AFG and SAFER will cease to exist on September 30, 2024, unless Congress takes action. Urge your Senators and Representative to act now to reauthorize AFG, SAFER, and USFA. Here are ways you can help:

  • Call your Senators’ and Representative’s offices and tell them to pass the Fire Grants and Safety Act (S.870/H.R.4090) before the end of the year. The U.S. Capitol Switchboard can connect you at 202-224-3121.
  • Use the National Volunteer Fire Council’s Action Alert to send an email to your Senators and Representative telling them to reauthorize and fund AFG and SAFER.
  • Use this form to share your AFG, SAFER, and USFA success stories with the Congressional Fire Services Institute so they can share these stories with Congress.

Learn more about AFG, SAFER, and USFA, the impact they have on the fire service, and how you can be an advocate for reauthorization here.