The AFG and SAFER grants are the two most important sources of federal funding for fire departments across the United States. Together, these programs provide $720 million per year to assist local governments in hiring fire fighters, preventing layoffs, purchasing apparatus, and procuring equipment. The authorization for these two programs expires on September 30, 2023. Unless Congress acts, they will be closed on September 30, 2024. Congress cannot allow this vital lifeline for fire departments to disappear. The IAFF urges Congress to pass the Fire Grants and Safety Act (S. 870/H.R. 4090) to preserve these important programs.