More than 750 International Association of Fire Fighter member firefighters and paramedics were in Washington, D.C., for the 21st Annual IAFF Legislative Conference on March 17.

IAFF General President Harold Schaitberger criticized the federal government's funding of the fire service.

“The nation's governors, the nation's mayors, the League of Cities and law enforcement groups are issuing a chorus of cries for help from the federal government to make sure we are ready,” said Schaitberger. “But no one speaks louder than the International Association of Fire Fighters on the need for federal homeland security funding to first responders. Brothers and sisters, we will not rest until the necessary federal homeland security funding for training, equipment and staffing is in the hands of our local fire departments.”

Schaitberger encouraged IAFF members to urge their local Congressional representatives to support funding for homeland security on a local level. He also expressed his concern over the growing economic problems facing many of IAFF's affiliates and their communities.

“From Seattle to Minneapolis, Green Bay, Wis.; to New Bedford, Mass.; From San Mateo County, Calif.; to Benton, Ark.; Flint, Mich.; to Lynchburg, Va.; and to many other communities, our locals are struggling with the threat of layoffs, reductions in staffing by attrition, company shutdowns, and other serious cuts fueled by shrinking budgets and a sinking economy,” Schaitberger said.

Schaitberger made it clear that it was time for action in Washington D.C.

“Our members face tough working conditions, modest pay, benefits under attack, faulty equipment or no equipment at all,” Shaitberger said, “but they do their job because they believe in it. They're willing to put their lives on the line to protect our fellow citizens every day. So I challenge those politicians who say they are our friends to put it on the line for us. No more praise. No more accolades. We need action. Give our members what they need to do the job you and the American people have entrusted them to do.”