I 112th CONGRESS 1st Session H. R. 3753 IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES December 20, 2011 Ms. Richardson introduced the following bill; which was referred to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology A BILL To establish a grant program to encourage fire stations to establish or upgrade restroom, shower, and changing facilities to create more equitable conditions for women firefighters.

1.

Short title

This Act may be cited as the Fairness In Restrooms Existing in Stations Act or the FIRE Stations Act.

2.

Findings

Congress finds that— (1)most fire stations in use were built and planned with a single-gender workforce in mind; (2)more than 50 percent of fire departments do not have a single woman on the department; (3)women make up approximately 3.7 percent of all firefighters; and (4)a few fire departments still assign women only to stations that have facilities for women, limiting the potential for promotion and advancement for women.

3.

Grant program

(a)

In general

The Secretary of Homeland Security shall make grants to eligible fire stations to enable such stations to establish or upgrade restroom, shower, and changing facilities to create more equitable conditions for women firefighters. (b)

Eligibility

To be eligible to receive a grant under this Act, a fire station shall submit an application to the Secretary of Homeland Security at such time and in such format as the Secretary determines demonstrating that— (1)the fire station has a commitment to increasing the number of women firefighters; (2)no funds received by a grant will be used to displace any personnel; and (3)such other criteria the Secretary considers appropriate. (c)

Priority

Priority shall be given to fire stations that have chemical facilities, refineries, and other high-risk industries within their jurisdiction. (d)

Amount

Grants provided under this Act shall be in an amount determined by the Secretary based on the size and demonstrated need of the fire station and not to exceed $100,000.

4.

Authorization of Appropriations

There is authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary of Homeland Security such sums as may be necessary to carry out this Act.