Reinstate Critical Firefighter Safety and Health Programs

I am furious over the recent layoffs at the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), which have severely impacted critical programs dedicated to protecting our nation’s firefighters. The decision to lay off at least two-thirds of NIOSH staff, including seven of the eight members of the Fire Fighter Fatality Investigation and Prevention Program, is deeply troubling. This program provides life-saving insights by studying firefighter fatalities and sharing recommendations to prevent similar tragedies in the future. Additionally, staff from the National Firefighter Registry for Cancer—essential to tracking and understanding the high cancer rates among firefighters—are also being dismissed. These actions put the health and safety of thousands of firefighters at risk. I urge you to take immediate action to: Reinstate funding and staffing for the National Firefighter Cancer Registry; Fully restore the Firefighter Fatality Investigation and Prevention Program; Support the continued operation of the National Personal Protective Technology Laboratory, which evaluates life-saving gear; Protect the World Trade Center Health Program, which provides critical care for 9/11 responders still facing health challenges today. These programs are not optional—they are essential. Firefighters put their lives on the line every day to protect our communities. The least we can do is ensure they are protected through evidence-based health and safety programs. Please prioritize the health, safety, and well-being of our firefighters by fully restoring these programs. I look forward to your response and to seeing your leadership on this urgent issue.