Jan 01, 0001
The Call for Presentations at the 2025 Symposium in the Sun is now open.
Submit your presentation by March 3, 2025
Jan 01, 0001
IAFC 2025 Conference Lineup – An Event for Every Leader
Here’s a quick look at IAFC's 2025 conference lineup
Jan 01, 0001
Technology Summit International 2024: A Pivotal Event in Fire Service Innovation
A look at IAFC's TSI Conference showcasing modern fire service sector's innovation and collaborative potential
Jan 01, 0001
Volunteer & Combination Officers Section (VCOS) Board Elections: Call for Board Candidates
All the above candidate information must be received by Monday, March 10, 2025, at 11:59 PM ET.
Jan 01, 0001
Register today for IAFC's Mentoring Program
Learn what it takes to build and develop your team!
Jan 01, 0001
SmartTech, Robotics, & the Future of Responder Health: What’s New At TSI?
SmartTech, Robotics, & the Future of Responder Health: learn what's new at TSI 2024
Jan 01, 0001
U.S. House Passes Social Security Fairness Act (H.R. 82)
The House passes legislation to increase the Social Security benefit for many career fire and EMS personnel and their spouses
Jan 01, 0001
VCOS Announces Winner of the 2024 William F. Jenaway Illness & Injury Prevention Award
Ashburn Volunteer Fire & Rescue Department (AVFRD) recipient of the 2024 William F. Jenaway Illness & Injury Prevention Award.
Jan 01, 0001
IAFC Volunteer and Combination Officers Section Announces Winner of the 2024 Retention & Recruitment Award
Botetourt County Department of Fire & EMS is the winner of the 2024’s Retention and Recruitment Award
Jan 01, 0001
Chief Brian McQueen (Ret.) Named Winner of the 2024 John M. Buckman III Leadership Award
VCOS announces the winner of the 2024 John M. Buckman III Leadership Award
Jan 01, 0001
Crash Responder Safety Week 2024: Responders Ahead! Reduce Your Speed as You Proceed
Help raise awareness for the motoring public and implement strategies to promote a culture of safety
Jan 01, 0001
Ensuring Safety in the Age of Lithium-Ion Batteries
Resources to assist fire departments during Lithium-Ion and Energy Storage Systems response
Jan 01, 0001
Public Hearing on Thermal Fuse Reimbursement: A Critical Step Towards Fire Safety
CMC to hold public hearing November 8 regarding thermal fuses, a crucial safety device in fire prevention.
Jan 01, 0001
IAFC Releases Resources for Incidents Related to the 2024 Election
Resources to help fire and EMS departments prepare for instances of civil unrest related to the 2024 election
Jan 01, 0001
Evacuation Management 2-Day Course for Law & Fire Service Leaders
A two-day program was developed to help communities PREPARE and RESPOND to a largescale evacuation
Jan 01, 0001
The FCC Announces New Rules for the 4.9 GHz Band
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) votes to support new guidelines for a nationwide Band Manager framework
Jan 01, 0001
Spencerport Fire District Awarded IAFC Deccan International Grant
Spencerport Fire District is proud to announce that it has been awarded an exclusive IAFC VCOS Analytics Grant in partnership with Deccan International
Jan 01, 0001
Shaping the Future of Fire Service: Insights from IAFC President Josh Waldo
Listen in as Chief Josh Waldo shares his journey to becoming Chief of Bozeman and President of the IAFC.
Jan 01, 0001
Good News! Symposium In The Sun Update Following Hurricane Milton!
The Hilton is open at full capacity, with amenities open or soon to be open (pool, bars, etc.), with no structural or utility damage.
Jan 01, 0001
FEMA's Hurricane Milton After the Storm Messaging Resource Toolkit
This toolkit provides multimedia resources quickly available for you to be able to share messaging to your community after Hurricane Milton.
Jan 01, 0001
IAFC Recommends that Fire and EMS Chiefs Prepare for Supply Chain Interruptions
The IAFC recommends that fire and EMS chiefs take precautions to prepare for possible supply chain interruptions.
Jan 01, 0001
IAFC Terrorism and Homeland Security Committee Releases 2024-2026 Strategic Plan
IAFC members are encouraged to review the strategic plan and download the annexes for their use
Jan 01, 0001
IAFC Releases New “Hot Wash” For Major Incidents and Training Exercises
“Hotwash” form provides a means to collect pertinent lessons learned; challenges that were faced; and successes that a fire chief and their community face
Jan 01, 0001
Congress Passes SIREN Act Reauthorization to Assist Rural EMS
Now that S. 265 has passed the House of Representatives, it will go to President Biden to sign into law
Jan 01, 0001
2024 Recipient of the VCOS Training Officer Award
Division Chief Training Officer Robert Barron has been selected as the 2024 raining Officer Award
Jan 01, 0001
Upcoming Contractor Opportunity – Workforce Solutions
Work with IAFC to help develop and update our educational offerings
Jan 01, 0001
IAFC Files Comments in Response to OSHA’s Proposed Emergency Response Standard
IAFC comments highlight the need to protect firefighter safety and reduce deaths and injuries & discusses the risks of heart attacks, strokes, cancer, and threats
Jan 01, 0001
An Exclusive Offer for IAFC VCOS Members
Vector Solutions offers a special on their training system to VCOS members.
Jan 01, 0001
VCOS & Deccan International Partner to Bring Analytics Grant to Volunteer & Combination Fire Departments
Opportunity for Analyst Grant Award will receive registration and travel expenses for one representative to attend the Symposium in the Sun
Jan 01, 0001
Volunteer & Combination Officers Section: Notice of FRI & SUN Awards & Scholarships
Volunteer & Combination Officers section's FRI and Sun Awards & Scholarship Opportunities.
Jan 01, 0001
Fire Grants and Safety Act, S. 870 Bill Signing
Important update on two vital programs to the fire service: the AFG and SAFER grants
Jan 01, 0001
2024 Emerging Leader and Emerging Leader Alumni Scholarship Opportunity
Emerging Leader Scholarship and Alumni Scholarship opportunity to attend Symposium in the Sun
Jan 01, 0001
NIOSH Program Requests Fire and Emergency Service Input on LODD Investigations Comments Due by July 22
NIOSH Request for Comments around Human Factors Considerations - Feedback Requested
Jan 01, 0001
Firefighter Families Visit Washington DC to Advocate for PSOB Benefits
Ask Congress to Pass the Honoring Our Fallen Heroes Act (H.R. 1719/S. 930)
Jan 01, 0001
New Volunteer Recruitment & Retention Resources Available - Free R&R App and Fire Camp Guide
Check out the IAFC's new recruitment and retention app and fire camp guide.
Jan 01, 0001
Nominations Open for Prestigious Training Officer Award
VCOS is accepting nominations for the Prestigious 2024 Training Officer Recognition Award
Jan 01, 0001
U.S. House of Representatives Votes to Save FIRE and SAFER Grants
The U.S. House of Representatives has voted to pass S. 870, extending the end date of both the AFG (FIRE) & SAFER Grants. The bill will now be considered by the Senate.
Jan 01, 0001
Fire Chiefs: Act Now to Save the AFG and SAFER Grant Programs!
U.S. House of Representatives is scheduled to consider the Fire Grants and Safety Act (S. 870)
Jan 01, 0001
Message from IAFC President John Butler re: OSHA Draft Emergency Response Standard
Message from IAFC President John Butler re: OSHA Draft Emergency Response Standard
Jan 01, 0001
Two Fire/EMS Departments to Receive Heart Safe Community Awards at 2024 Fire-Rescue Med Conference
City of Madison and Dothan, Alabama fire departments recognized for their exceptional efforts toward cardiac safety & education.
Jan 01, 0001
Passing of VCOS Immediate Past Chair Chief Charles Flynn
Chief Charles Flynn, Immediate Past Chair of the IAFC Volunteer and Combination Officers Section, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, early this morning.
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Jan 01, 0001
FRM 2024: Why You Can't Afford to Miss It!
FRM, for leaders to gather key information and build better situational awareness, leading to better decision-making
Jan 01, 0001
Important NIST Findings on Firefighter Gear: Understanding the Risks of PFAS
Are firefighters at risk of increased exposure to cancer-causing chemicals in their protective clothing?
Jan 01, 0001
Lion, IAFC Proudly Partner for Saudi Aramco Cohort 24 International Fellowship Program Graduation
IAFC continues partnership to provide a host environment for the Fellowship Program.
Jan 01, 0001
Statement from IAFC President, Chief John S. Butler
IAFC President, Chief John S. Butler announces appointments
Jan 01, 0001
Department of Labor seeks to expand, establish protections for today’s emergency response workers
Proposal to update standard and expand safety & health protections for emergency responders.
Jan 01, 0001
Federal Ground Ambulance and Patient Billing Advisory Committee Votes on Recommendations
New recommendations are being considered for ambulance services and improve the disclosure of charges and fees for ground ambulance services
Jan 01, 0001
National Fire Service Organizations Urge Congress to Protect America's Fire and Emergency Services
National organizations calling on Congress to ensure that vital fire service grant programs are reauthorized
Jan 01, 0001
City of Golden (CO) Fire Department and Goochland County (VA) Fire-Rescue & Emergency Services Selected for Deccan International/VCOS “Analyst” Grant!
IAFC, VCOS and Deccan International announce departments selected to receive grant
Jan 01, 0001
Transformative Partnership Formed Between IAFC and Columbia Southern University
IAFC and CSU proudly announced a groundbreaking collaboration that delivers on one of the key goals
Jan 01, 0001
New IAFC Wildfire Evacuation Planning Toolkit
Checkout this new interactive web-based geospatial Wildfire Evacuation Planning Toolkit.
Jan 01, 0001
Training: Batteries in the Fire Service, Tall Mass-Timber Buildings & Fire Department Concerns, and Codes that Safeguard Construction
Training on operational response and code requirements for batteries in buildings and energy storage systems
Jan 01, 0001
House Begins Work on Fiscal Year 2024 DHS Appropriations
Reported Fiscal Year (FY) 2024 Department of Homeland Security appropriations bill.
Jan 01, 0001
Heart Safe Communities Honored at Fire-Rescue Med 2023
Two fire departments were recognized for their success in improving cardiac arrest survival rates in their communities
Jan 01, 0001
EMS Week 2023 - May 21-27
This annual campaign brings the EMS community together to celebrate the accomplishments of EMTs and paramedics
Jan 01, 0001
IAFC President Testifies at Congressional Hearing
Chief Donna Black testifies to support the reauthorization of the AFG and SAFER programs
Jan 01, 0001
Vector Solutions and IAFC’s Volunteer and Combination Officers Section Now Accepting Nominations for the 2023 Training Officer Recognition Award
The award, which is now open for nominations, acknowledges exemplary conduct by a training officer for their innovation and effectiveness when delivering training.
Jan 01, 0001
Fire Grants and Safety Act (S. 870) has passed in the Senate, Now What?
Great news for members of the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) and the entire fire service community! The Fire Grants and Safety Act (S. 870) has passed in the Senate with an overwhelming vote of 95-2. This is a significant achievement and deserves to be celebrated.
Jan 01, 0001
Fire Camp Guide Contractor Opportunity
Seeking contractors to help develop a fire camp guide for volunteer and combination departments.
Jan 01, 0001
URGENT: TAKE ACTION: The Senate Considers Legislation to Reauthorize the AFG and SAFER Grant Programs Starting Tomorrow (Wednesday)
Please contact your Senators and ask them to vote for S. 870, the Fire Grants & Safety Act, without any amendments
Jan 01, 0001
First Responder Wellness Week: 5 days of health and wellness
Join us March 27-31 as we partner with Lexipol to launch the first annual First Responder Wellness Week
Jan 01, 0001
Please Take Action: Ask the Senate to Protect the FIRE and SAFER Grant Programs!
Update on legislation to reauthorize funding for the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program
Jan 01, 0001
RFP: Recruitment and Retention Instructor Contract Opportunity
Recruitment and Retention Coordinator Certification (RRC) course is accepting submissions for contractor positions.
Jan 01, 0001
North Carolina Association of Fire Chiefs Receives Safer Grant
NCAFC Grant Will Assist Communities in Recruiting and Retaining Volunteer Firefighters
Jan 01, 0001
President Biden Signed a $1.7 Trillion Omnibus Bill; Fire Service Grant Programs Funded Through 2023
Updates regarding the AFG and SAFER programs.
Jan 01, 0001
Status of AFG and SAFER Grants – Funded for Fiscal Year 2023
On December 22, the H.R. 2617 bill was passed which includes funding for the AFG and SAFER programs.
Jan 01, 0001
It’s the Holiday Season: Health Update from the IAFC
The the best ways to stay healthy over the coming winter months
Jan 01, 0001
NVFC, VCOS, ISFSI Release Operational Training Guide for Fire Departments
A training program that meets the needs of the community and the individual firefighter with safety
Jan 01, 0001
Symposium in the Sun Scholarship and Award Nominations Due Sept. 29
Apply for a scholarship to the Symposium in the Sun.
Jan 01, 0001
Emerging Leader Scholarship and Alumni Scholarship Opportunity
Scholarship available for an all- expenses paid opportunity for a future fire service leader to attend the Symposium in the Sun.
Jan 01, 0001
Would You Take 10 Minutes to Help the Volunteer and Combination Fire Service?
The IAFC is conducting a survey on diversity, equity and inclusion to assist volunteer recruitment and retention in the volunter and combination fire service. Learn more about the survey and participate today.
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Jan 01, 0001
Save the Date: 3rd International Fire Operations Conference & Exhibition
A platform for academicians, researchers, managers, subject matter experts & students to share their research findings/best practices with the global audience.
Jan 01, 0001
FEMA Announces SAFER Grant Application Period: Jan. 3 – Feb. 4, 2022
The application period for the Staffing for Adequate Fire & Emergency Response (SAFER) grants application period will begin on JAN 3.
Jan 01, 0001
Needs Assessment of US Fire Service
Fifth Needs Assessment shows some progress but continuing gaps in fire department resources.
Jan 01, 0001
IAFC Online Community available via Mobile App
Access IAFC's online community via mobile app.
Jan 01, 0001
The IAFC-VCOS and Provident Insurance Announce the John M. Buckman III Leadership Award Winner: Assistant Chief David Lewis, Sr. (Ret.)
IAFC-VCOS and Provident Insurance Announce the 2021 John M. Buckman III Leadership Award Winner
Jan 01, 0001
IAFC-VCOS and NVFC Release Lavender Ribbon Report Update to Reduce Occupational Cancer Risks
11 best practices for reducing exposure risks and preventing occupationally caused cancer in firefighters
Jan 01, 0001
HHS Announces Availability of $25.5 billion in COVID-19 Provider Funding
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announced that $25.5 billion soon will be available to help EMS providers with the costs of providing COVID-19 response.
Jan 01, 0001
IAFC Encourages Fire and EMS Departments to Remain Vigilant During the Fall
The Terrorism and Homeland Security Committee is in close contact with our federal intelligence and law enforcement partners and will work diligently to share any priority threat-related information.
Jan 01, 0001
IAFC Position on COVID-19 Vaccination of Fire and EMS Personnel
The IAFC is committed to the health and safety of our fire and EMS department personnel.
Jan 01, 0001
Chiefs Reflect on Interview Regarding Volunteer Firefighters
According to a National Fire Protection Association report, there is an estimated 1,115,000 firefighters in the United States. Of that total number, 745,000 or 67% are volunteer firefighters.
Jan 01, 0001
New VCOS Board Members Sworn-In at Fire-Rescue International
Chief Brita Horn, Assistant Chief Paul Sterling, Jr., Chief Al Yancey, Jr., and Chief Kevin Hardwick sworn in at FRI 2021.
Jan 01, 0001
Members of Congress Introduce Legislation with Housing Benefits for Volunteer Fire and EMS Personnel
The Volunteer First Responder Housing Act (S. 2316/H.R. 4377) was introduced by Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-MN) and Representative Cynthia Axne (D-IA). Both bills have bipartisan support.
Jan 01, 0001
Winner Announced for 2021 VCOS Training Officer Recognition Award Sponsored by Vector Solutions
James Hedrick, Volunteer Training Coordinator from Fairfax County (Virginia) Fire and Rescue Department Named the 2021 Recipient
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Jan 01, 0001
IAFC Seeks Proposals for App Development
IAFC seeks competitive proposals for app development that will enable fire departments to create recruitment and retention plans
Jan 01, 0001
National Workforce Solutions Fire Camp Scholarships
IAFC's National Workforce Solutions & VCOS partner to offer scholarships to 20 volunteer and combination fire departments across the country
Jan 01, 0001
Vector Solutions and IAFC’s Volunteer and Combination Officers Section Now Accepting Nominations for the 2021 Training Officer Recognition Award
The award, which is now open for nominations, acknowledges exemplary conduct by a training officer for their innovation and effectiveness when delivering training.
Jan 01, 0001
NHTSA Encourages First Responders to Review its Guidelines for Incidents Involving Electric of Hybrid Vehicles Following NTSB Study on Risks Posed by These Vehicles
Guidance for responders when responding to incidents including electric vehicles.
Jan 01, 0001
State-by-State Listing of Vaccine Priority Available
IAFC urges members to contact their governors in support of providing all fire and EMS personnel with priority access to COVID vaccines.
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Jan 01, 0001
Wildland Fire Highlighted in Congressional Briefing
IAFC educates Congress about current wildland fire issues
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Jan 01, 0001
IAFC Urges Expanded Support for Nonprofit Fire Departments
IAFC urges the SBA to assist private nonprofit fire departments.
Jan 01, 0001
Now Accepting Nominations for VCOS/TargetSolutions Training Officer Recognition Award
TargetSolutions and IAFC’s VCOS team once again for the annual Training Officer Recognition Award.
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Jan 01, 0001
FY 2019 SAFER Grants: Application Period Extended, Cost-Share Waived
In consideration of the economic effects of the pandemic, Acting Secretary Wolf also authorized waivers for certain provisions of the FY 2020 SAFER Grant Program.
Jan 01, 0001
Volunteer Recruitment and Retention Assistance Available for Indiana Fire Departments
All support is provided free of cost to departments; the program is funded by the FEMA’s Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grants.
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Jan 01, 0001
VCOS and Tim Shurr Team Up to Offer Valuable Online Leadership Education for the Fire Service
Six-Part Online Leadership Training
Jan 01, 0001
National Emergency Declaration: What Fire Chiefs Need to Know
President Trump on March 13 declared a national emergency over the coronavirus pandemic, invoking the Stafford Act.
Jan 01, 0001
IAFC Launches Coronavirus Task Force
The Task Force will be monitoring COVID-19 and developing recommendations for ways that fire departments can protect their members while continuing to serve their communities.
Jan 01, 0001
The IAFC Applauds Passage of Volunteer Responder Incentive Protection Act
VRIPA exempts nominal incentives for volunteer first responders from being considered taxable income for the 2020 tax year
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Jan 01, 0001
It's Drone Safety Week
This is an opportunity to share your commitment to drone safety and download valuable resources for you and your crew.
Jan 01, 0001
U.S. DOT Proposes Major Rule for the Safe Transportation of LNG by Rail Tank Car
Currently, LNG may only be transported via rail in a portable tank with an approval from FRA. However, the HMR does authorize the DOT 113 specification tank car for other flammable cryogenic liquids
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Jan 01, 0001
ET3 Updates: Where Is the Program Heading?
One of the most important announcements from CMMI came with their decision to extend the application period, which now will close on October 5 at 11:59 PM ET.
Jan 01, 0001
FRI 2019 Highlights: VCOS Interview
Chief Charles Flynn and Chief Al Yancey, Jr. on IAFC TV during FRI 2019
Jan 01, 0001
VCOS and EFO Release New Report to Assist in First 100 Days as a Chief
New report lays out the key things a new or interim chief needs to know and be thinking about on the first day, during the first week, during the first month, and during months two through six.
Jan 01, 0001
National Diversity and Inclusion Program Departments Announced
This program focuses on improving volunteer recruitment and retention through more inclusive and diverse departments nationwide
Jan 01, 0001
VCOS & VFIS Retention and Recruitment Award Open
The award recognizes success and excellence in the retention and recruitment of emergency service members.
Jan 01, 0001
Nominations Open for Chief Buckman Leadership Award
Nomination period for the Chief Buckman Leadership Award is open through August 16.
Jan 01, 0001
Connecticut's "See You Out There" PSA wins EMMY®
A PSA recruiting volunteer firefighters wins EMMY®
Jan 01, 0001
House Acts to Restore Volunteer Tax Protections
If passed by the Senate, it would allow volunteer firefighters and EMS personnel to receive property tax-based incentives and up to $600 per year.
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Jan 01, 0001
TargetSolutions and IAFC VCOS Now Accepting Nominations for 2019 Training Officer Recognition Award
Nominations for the 2019 Training Officer Recognition Award are being accepted through June 30.
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Jan 01, 0001
Taxing Times in Congress
Urge your members of Congress to support fire sprinklers and volunteer and combination fire departments!
Jan 01, 0001
You're a New Chief-level Officer. Now What?
New course is designed for chief-level officers across the United States so please share it with your fire service colleagues.
Jan 01, 0001
An open Letter to the Fire Service
On Thursday, I was bestowed the honor of being this year’s Volunteer Fire Chief of the Year by the International Association of Fire Chiefs. What an amazing honor!
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Jan 01, 0001
Lavender Ribbon Report: Best Practices for Preventing Firefighter Cancer Released
Fire service leaders and all personnel are asked to make cancer prevention a priority in all fire departments.
Jan 01, 0001
IAFC and Pierce Manufacturing Announce 2018 Fire Chiefs of the Year
Herbert Leusch, volunteer, and Joanne Hayes-White, career, named Fire Chiefs of the Year
Jan 01, 0001
Illness and Injury Prevention Award Now Accepting Applications
The Award is designed to support the NFFF and USFA initiatives to reduce firefighter injuries and illness.
Jan 01, 0001
VCOS and VFIS Retention and Recruitment Award Open
Award recognizes innovative volunteer department retention and recruitment programs.
Jan 01, 0001
VCOS Accepting Nominations for Chief John M. Buckman III Leadership Award
Award recognizes fire service leaders who demonstrat leadership, integrity, and outstanding values.
Jan 01, 0001
Unofficial Results: VCOS Board Election Announced
3-year terms will start at the VCOS Annual Meeting during FRI in Dallas.
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Jan 01, 0001
Symposium in the Sun Scholarship Now Accepting Applications through Aug. 10
Conference helps leaders address unique challenges facing departments of all sizes.
Jan 01, 0001
Feeling Blessed to Pass the Torch
Not only is the fire service not immune from the speedy pace of retiring Baby Boomers, but given the demographics, culture and traditions, we may be at even greater risk. This article is adapted from one that ran recently in the VCOS newsletter.
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Jan 01, 0001
Fighting Fire with the Tax Code
Tax cut bill: What's in it for fire and EMS
Jan 01, 0001
IAFC, VCOS Release Report on Behavioral Health in the Fire Service
Report raises awareness about the emotional and behavioral health issues in the fire service.
Jan 01, 0001
Volunteer Fire Service: Finding Recruitment and Retention Solutions
Recently, volunteer firefighters and leaders of all ranks across Connecticut met at the Branford (Conn.) Fire Department, to share information about the financial and training opportunities available statewide to volunteer departments.
Jan 01, 0001
Bill Introduced in House to Provide Volunteer Firefighters Tax Break Incentive
VRIPA would provide a permanent reauthorization of a portion of the tax code which allows volunteer firefighters to receive property-tax based incentives and up to $600 in other incentives without being considered taxable income.
Jan 01, 0001
Is Your Pay-Per Call Program FLSA Compliant?
Pay-per-call programs can benefit volunteer and combination fire departments with their firefighter recruitment and retention efforts. They can also create significant liabilities for local governments when those programs are not FLSA compliant. The IAFC has resources to help departments be FLSA compliant.
