12.01.15

Hoeven Announces $306 Million in Available Funding to Improve Fire Safety, Encourages Local Fire Districts to Apply

As Chairman of DHS Appropriations Committee, Senator Oversees Annual Funding for the FEMA Program

WASHINGTON – Senator John Hoeven, chairman of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee on Homeland Security, today announced that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is making $306 million in funding available through the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program. This program seeks to provide fire departments and nonaffiliated ambulance and emergency medical service organizations with the tools and resources they need to more effectively protect the health and safety of emergency response personnel. The funds may be used for equipment, training, facility improvements and other needs. As chairman, Hoeven oversees the annual funding for the AFG Program and all other programs at FEMA and throughout the Department of Homeland Security.

“Our firefighters and emergency responders are on the front lines in protecting the health and safety of our communities,” Hoeven said. “We support their important work both by striving to prevent accidents and by ensuring they have the tools they need to adequately respond to emergencies. Whether our first responders are looking to expand services for a growing population, access more robust training or replace aging equipment and facilities, this competitive grant program is an opportunity to enhance their safety and the safety of our families and businesses.”

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