Today, Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (WA-03) voted with the House of Representatives to pass the bipartisan Fire Grants and Safety Act of 2023, which now heads to the President’s desk to extend federal programs supporting fire departments across Southwest Washington.
Rep. Gluesenkamp Perez joined bipartisan colleagues twice to urge House Leadership to include the bill in must-pass funding packages. She also cosponsored the House version of this legislation and is a member of the bipartisan Congressional Fire Services Caucus.
The Fire Grants and Safety Act will reauthorize funding for Assistance to Firefighter Grants (AFG), Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grants, and the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) through FY 2030. Counties and localities across Southwest Washington have received critical support through both AFG and SAFER grants to ensure their departments are properly equipped, trained, and staffed.
“Wildfires are an ever-present threat in Southwest Washington, and brave first responders and volunteers are on the front lines of defense, especially in rural communities. Ensuring they have the equipment and staffing needed to stay safe and healthy on the job is a foundational part of honoring their service,” said Rep. Gluesenkamp Perez. “Local fire chiefs have underscored the importance of these federal grant programs, so I’m glad our bipartisan efforts were successful to protect this vital funding for years to come.”
After the Tunnel 5 Fire broke out in Skamania County last summer, Rep. Gluesenkamp Perez visited the fireline to hear from first responders firsthand. She has also met with local fire chiefs and commissioners across Southwest Washington.