16th District Report

For more than two decades, the International Association of Fire Fighters 16th District has stood united in defense of federal fire fighters and emergency personnel serving our nation at Department of Defense (DoD) installations, Veterans Affairs facilities, and other federal agencies. Through solidarity, collective action, and unwavering commitment to one another, our district has grown stronger and more influential in protecting the rights, safety, and future of federal fire fighters.

Standing Together Against Privatization

The 16th District has repeatedly mobilized alongside the IAFF and our affiliated locals to defeat efforts to privatize federal fire protection services through attempts to repeal 10 U.S.C. § 2465, the DoD firefighting contract prohibition. By standing united, we protected thousands of union jobs, preserved critical emergency response capabilities, and defended the principle that public safety belongs in the hands of highly trained professional fire fighters — not private contractors.

That fight continues today as new contracting threats emerge across the federal sector. Our solidarity remains our greatest strength.

Fighting for Fair and Safe Work Schedules

The district has consistently advocated for work schedules that protect the health, safety, and quality of life of federal fire fighters and their families. Through collective bargaining, legislative advocacy, and coordinated action, we have pushed back against harmful schedule changes while securing improvements through National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) provisions that strengthen scheduling flexibility and working conditions.

Building Strength Through Education and Training

Recognizing that an educated union is a stronger union, the 16th District worked closely with the IAFF to expand federal-sector-specific education and leadership development opportunities. Federal fire fighters now have greater access to training tailored to the unique challenges we face in the federal service, strengthening our locals and preparing future leaders for the battles ahead.

Supporting Locals in Critical Fights

Solidarity means standing with our brothers and sisters when they need it most. District leadership secured approximately $900,000 in IAFF Guardian and Emergency Dispute Fund support for federal locals engaged in precedent-setting staffing, bargaining, and labor disputes. These resources ensured that locals confronting major challenges never had to stand alone.

Winning Legislative Victories Together

Working side-by-side with IAFF leadership and congressional allies, the 16th District helped secure important victories for federal fire fighters through annual defense legislation, including:

These victories demonstrate what can be achieved when fire fighters speak with one united voice.

Supporting Members During Government Shutdowns

During federal government shutdowns, the IAFF and the 16th District rallied together to support federal fire fighters and their families during periods of uncertainty and financial hardship. Through programs such as “Adopt a Family,” emergency financial assistance, coordination with locals nationwide, and the suspension of IAFF dues for affected members, we demonstrated the true meaning of union solidarity.

Defending Collective Bargaining Rights

The district has remained steadfast in defending the collective bargaining rights guaranteed under 5 U.S.C. Chapter 71. Whether confronting executive actions, agency reorganizations, staffing reductions, or unilateral schedule changes, the 16th District has fought back through arbitration, FLRA litigation, political advocacy, and coordinated organizing efforts.

We understand that an attack on one local is an attack on all of us.

Protecting Fire Fighters From Occupational Hazards

The 16th District has actively supported IAFF-wide efforts to address occupational cancer and PFAS contamination affecting fire fighters nationwide. Federal fire fighters have faced unique exposure risks due to military firefighting requirements, and our district has continued to advocate for stronger protections, awareness, and accountability.

Strengthening Unity Among Federal Locals

Over the past 20 years, the district has dramatically expanded coordination and communication among federal locals across the country. By sharing strategies, supporting one another’s struggles, and building stronger relationships between locals, we have increased our collective power at the bargaining table, in arbitration, and on Capitol Hill.

Increasing Our Political Voice

The 16th District has become a stronger and more active voice in congressional advocacy, fighting for:

These efforts reflect the growing political strength and unity of federal fire fighters nationwide.

Defending Emergency Response Capabilities

The district has consistently fought against reductions in apparatus staffing and emergency response capabilities at federal facilities. Through grievances, arbitration, organizing, and advocacy, we have continued to defend safe staffing levels that protect both fire fighters and the communities we serve.

A Stronger Federal Fire Fighter Movement

Over the last two decades, the 16th District has evolved into a stronger, more organized, and more politically engaged force within the labor movement and the federal labor relations arena. That progress was built through solidarity, persistence, and the shared commitment of federal fire fighters standing together across the country.

As we move forward, our mission remains clear:

Gratitude for IAFF Support

The continued support of the IAFF has been instrumental in the success of the 16th District. The General President, the General Secretary-Treasurer, and the dedicated IAFF staff have consistently stood with federal fire fighters, providing guidance, resources, and support during our most critical battles.

Together, through unity and solidarity, we will continue to protect the future of federal fire fighters and the labor movement we proudly represent.