[Congressional Record Volume 146, Number 78 (Tuesday, June 20, 2000)]
[Senate]
[Page S5452]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                            THE F.I.R.E. ACT

  Mr. BURNS. Mr. President, I rise today to bring attention to 
America's local fire fighters who put their lives on the line every day 
protecting the lives and property of their fellow citizens. When the 
call comes in, they answer without question or hesitation. 
Unfortunately, local and volunteer fire departments are in dire need of 
financial support. The health and safety of fire fighters and the 
public is jeopardized because many departments cannot afford to 
purchase protective gear and equipment, provide adequate training, and 
are short staffed. It is time for Congress to lend them a helping hand.
  That is why I have cosponsored a bill in the Senate called the 
Firefighter Investment and Response Enhancement or FIRE Act. This bill, 
S. 1941, authorizes a program granting up to one billion dollars for 
local fire departments across our great country. The money would be 
available to volunteer, combination, and paid departments. It would 
help pay for much needed equipment, training, EMS expenses, apparatus 
and arson prevention efforts and a variety of education programs.
  Wildfires across America and Montana are a growing threat. The FIRE 
Act is especially critical for rural states such as Montana as we rely 
heavily upon our volunteer firefighters to protect those things we hold 
dear. Quite often these volunteer departments are the only line of 
defense in these rural communities. It's time we provide them with the 
needed funds for proper training and equipment to better protect their 
communities.
  I offer my sincere gratitude to our Nation's fire fighters who put 
their lives on the line every day to protect the property and safety of 
their neighbors. They too deserve a helping hand in their time of need.
  I commend Senators Dodd and DeWine for introducing this important 
legislation, and urge all my colleagues who have not done so to sign 
onto this bill. I would like to encourage the Committee to hold 
hearings on S. 1941 and suggest that we continue to move this bill 
forward toward ultimate passage.
  Thank you Mr. President, I yield the floor.

                          ____________________