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Congress Passes Economic Stimulus Package
On Tuesday, February 17th, President Obama signed into law the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. The bill, popularly known at the stimulus bill, was passed by both houses of Congress on Friday, February 13th. Congressional leaders have stated the $787 billion spending package is intended jumpstart the economy and create jobs.
Among the provisions in the bill are several programs of benefit to the fire service. The legislation includes $210 million for competitive grants to upgrade, modify or construct fire stations. Under this program, grants would be capped at $15 million. The legislation also includes a provision waiving the local match requirement for the SAFER grant program for fiscal years 2009 and 2010.
The stimulus bill also contains funding to help combat wildland fires. The bill includes $500 million for the Forest Service; $250 million is to be used for hazardous fuels reduction and other activities for federal lands. The other half of the funding is targeted at State and private forest lands. The Bureau of Land Management also received $15 million for wildland forest management.
Other provisions of interest to public safety include $4.35 million for broadband deployment grants, which public safety communications systems would be eligible for. The bill also contains $53.6 billion for the State Fiscal Stabilization Fund, of which 18.2 % of each state's allocation can be used for public safety at the governor's discretion. |
Congress Delays DTV Transition
On Wednesday, February 11th, President Obama signed S. 352, legislation to delay the nationwide transition of television broadcasting from analog to digital. Transition, which was originally scheduled for February 17th, will provide public safety agencies with much needed spectrum for communication systems. The legislation does contain a provision allowing public safety to claim the spectrum early if broadcasters vacate it before the new June 13th transition deadline. |
| Register for the 21st Annual National Fire and Emergeny Services Dinner
On April 1-2 CFSI will host the 21st Annual National Fire and Emergency Services Dinner and Seminars. To register for the event click here or paste the following URL (http://www.cfsi.org/dinner_about.asp) into your web browser.
The theme of the program is, "New Beginnings, New Opportunities." The theme captures the change in administrations and the start of a new Congress. We look forward to inviting officials from the new administration to participate in our schedule of events to share with our guests the policies and initiatives that they will advocate for our nation's first responders. And we will alert the newly elected members of Congress - and all members of Congress - to participate as well in the many activities scheduled and to encourage them to meet with you during your visit to Washington.
Prior to your journey to our nation's capitol, please visit our website to learn how you can arrange meetings with your members. The website will contain important information, including hotel information and a list of legislation that our National Advisory Committee continues to support on Capitol Hill. If you have any questions about the event, please contact CFSI at 202-371-1277 and we will be happy to assist you.
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