Ohio-based U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown has announced passage of legislation to increase support for local fire departments on Friday.

The bill would reauthorize the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) Staffing for Adequate and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant program, the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program and the United States Fire Administration (USFA).

In 2021, Ohio fire departments received 411 AFG and 33 SAFER grants. The programs are set to expire and are used by local fire departments to address staffing needs, purchase equipment, develop fire training and education programs and improve emergency medical services.

This legislation would reauthorize these programs until 2030.

"Firefighters and first responders put their lives on the line each day, often facing stressful and dangerous situations to protect Ohioans. This investment will help ensure that Ohio first responders have the resources they need to keep our communities safe," Brown said.

Ohio Association of Professional Firefighters President, Jon Harvey thanked Senator Brown for his support stating that Ohio communities will be safer because of it.