Legislation that would authorize $5 billion over the next five years for grants to local fire departments is awaiting hearings in the U.S. House of Representatives.

The Firefighter Investment and Response Enhancement, or fire, Act was introduced in March by U.S. Reps. Bill Pascrell (N.J.) and Curt Weldon (Pa.), founder of the Congressional Fire Services Caucus. The legislation would allow for the funding of additional firefighters and fire department-based emts, equipment for rapid intervention teams, training in rescue and hazmat procedures, and arson prevention efforts.

The legislation has been referred to the House Science and House Transportation committees, where no hearings have yet been scheduled. Although the bill has the support of many House members, the legislation hasn't been introduced in the Senate.

A spokesperson for Pascrell said that the congressman was pushing for hearings on the legislation this summer.