The Critical Role of AFG & SAFER Grants
The Assistance to Firefighters Grants (AFG) equipment program and the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grants are two of the most effective and essential federal programs supporting U.S. fire departments. These grants provide funding for critical life-saving equipment, training, and personnel—directly benefiting local communities and ensuring that fire and rescue services remain capable of responding to emergencies, disasters, and national security threats.
However, despite the growing needs of fire departments, funding for these programs has failed to keep pace with rising costs and increasing demand. In FY2023 alone, AFG received 10 times more in requests than could be funded, totalling $3.7 billion in unmet needs. Similarly, SAFER saw $3.1 billion in requests while only being funded at $360 million (Congressional Fire Services Institute).
For FY2025 and FY2026, Congress must fund the AFG and SAFER programs at $405 million each to ensure that fire departments across the country have the resources they need to protect U.S. communities. While both programs are authorized at $750 million each, Congress funded both programs at $360 million in FY2023, and then cut them both by 10% in FY2024. With uncertainty looming over all federal grant funding in the current congress, American firefighters can't afford to be cut.
Why Congress Must Increase Funding for AFG & SAFER
1. DOGE Take Note: AFG Is One of the Most Efficiently Run Federal Programs in Existence
The AFG program is highly efficient, with nearly all appropriated funds distributed directly to fire departments. AFG minimizes bureaucratic overhead, ensuring maximum benefit for local communities with minimal administrative waste. The return on investment is clear - AFG funding saves lives, while advancing U.S. manufacturing and global competitiveness.
2. Fire Departments Cannot Keep Up with Rising Costs
Between 2023 and 2025 alone:
- Turnout gear and PPE costs have risen by 22%.
- Fire apparatus (pumpers) costs increased by 11%.
At the same time, AFG funding has remained largely stagnant—shrinking 43% from its FY2009 funding level of $565 million. Without increased funding, fire departments will continue to struggle to afford essential safety and response equipment.
3. Emergency Response Needs Are Growing Rapidly
Fire and rescue personnel responded to 42.4 million calls in 2023, up from 42.1 million in 2022 (NFPA). As the aging population expands and severe weather events intensify, demand for emergency services will only increase.
Additionally, U.S. fire department splay an integral role in national disaster response. In 2023 alone, the U.S.experienced 27 disasters costing over $1 billion each, totalling $182.7billion in damages—a 730% increase in annual costs compared to the1980s (NOAA). Ensuring fire departments are fully equipped is not just a local issue—it’s a matter of national security and resilience.
4. AFG & SAFER Funding Supports U.S. Manufacturers, American Innovation, and National Security
The Fire Apparatus Manufacturers’ Association (FAMA) and the Fire and Emergency Manufacturers & Services Association (FEMSA) represent over 250 U.S.-based companies that manufacture fire service equipment. These businesses employ 95,873 American workers, most of whom are employed by small and medium-sized companies. Many of these companies also produce equipment for the U.S. Department of Defense, supporting America's warfighters.
By funding AFG and SAFER at $405million each, Congress directly supports American manufacturing and job creation while ensuring our first responders have access to the latest fire safety technology.
Congress Has Already Shown Strong Bipartisan Support
In 2024, Congress overwhelmingly passed The Fire Grants and Safety Act, which reauthorized AFG and SAFER.This bipartisan victory demonstrated that lawmakers across the aisle understand the importance of funding our nation’s fire departments. Now, it’s time for Congress to follow through by ensuring that these programs receive the funding they need.
For the 119th Congress:
✅ Fund the Assistance to Firefighters Grants (AFG) Program at $405 million.
✅ Fund the SAFER Program at $405 million.
✅ Fund the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) at $60.33 million to support training for 100,000 first responders annually.
✅ Fund the Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) Response System at $75 million to enhance national disaster response capabilities.
Congressional Members: Join the Congressional Fire Services Caucus Today
The Congressional Fire Services Caucus' mission is to educate all members of Congress on the role and needs of the fire and emergency services. The caucus aims to bring together Republicans and Democrats in support of initiatives that benefit all first responders.
Becoming a member does not require taking positions on legislation; rather Caucus members are asked to pledge support in a way that best benefits fire departments in their respective Congressional Districts.
Click here for more information on the Caucus and how to join.
Protecting Communities & Supporting First Responders
Firefighters are on the front lines every day—whether responding to house fires, medical emergencies, wildfires, or large-scale disasters. Yet, without adequate federal funding, departments lack the resources to do their jobs safely and effectively.
Congress must act now. By increasing funding for AFG and SAFER, lawmakers can ensure that fire departments across the country are fully equipped to protect lives, property, and national security.
Let's get our firefighters' backs.