The appropriations bill for fiscal year 2005 that funds important fire service grant programs was passed by the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

Congress set aside $650 million for the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program (FIRE Act) which is a decrease of $100 million from the last two years of funding at $750 million. Congress also voted to provide $65 million to the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response Program (SAFER) which had not been funded before. The overall federal budget and increasing deficit led to the cut in the FIRE Act.

In creating the bill, Congress specifically mentioned that DHS keep the all encompassing focus on “all-hazards” preparation and to reinstate program categories the department was considering getting rid of such as wellness and fitness programs, emergency medical services, fire prevention programs, public education programs and modifications of facilities for health and safety personnel. The department was also directed to continue funding applications in compliance with local priorities and those established by the United States Fire Administration (USFA) while also including the USFA in grant administration.

The recent reauthorization of the FIRE Act back to the Emergency esponse and Preparedness Division of DHA with specific instructions made by Congress concerning the focus on “all-hazards” response has eased prior concerns of the IAFC.