Tester Secures Resources for Firefighters in Bozeman and Miles City

Senator Calls on House to Pass His Bipartisan Firefighting Legislation

(U.S. Senate)–U.S. Senator Jon Tester today announced that firefighters in Bozeman and Miles City will receive critical resources to buy new equipment and improve on the job training and safety.

“I am so proud of our state’s firefighters,” said Tester, Ranking Member of the Appropriations Subcommittee that allocates funding for these grants. “They deserve the very best equipment and training as they protect our lives, property and livelihoods. The House must not let this critical program expire. They must act quickly and pass legislation to keep these grants that support Montana fire departments.”

The funding for these grants comes from FEMA’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program, which provides rural fire departments with the resources they need to properly train first responders and ensure firefighters are appropriately equipped for emergency situations.

• City of Miles City – $294,054
  This grant will be used to purchase a new firefighting vehicle.

• City of Bozeman Fire Department – $53,346
  This grant can be used to pay for professional training, wellness and fitness programs equipment, personal protective equipment, modifications to facilities, and supplies that support firefighting and non-affiliated EMS operations and safety.

Tester has introduced legislation with Senator John McCain (R-Ariz.) to reauthorize the AFG Program, which is set to expire in January 2018. The bill has passed the Senate and is sitting in the House.

Last year, Montana fire departments received more than $2 million to support fire departments in Missoula, Paradise Valley, Livingston, Deer Lodge, and Great Falls.