Congress has approved a 2026 funding package advancing key IAFF priorities, including protecting health care for 9/11 responders through the World Trade Center Health Program, and boosting fire service staffing and equipment grants nationwide.
The package was signed into law by President Donald Trump, officially funding the U.S. government through Sept. 30, 2026.
Fire fighters who responded to the terrorist attack at Ground Zero answered the call without hesitation. ‘Never forget’ means making sure these brave men and women have access to the healthcare they need to combat the long-term illnesses they’re facing due to their service on 9/11.
General President Edward Kelly
At the center of the legislation is a long-sought fix to the World Trade Center Health Program, which provides medical monitoring and treatment to 9/11 responders. The package incorporates key components of the IAFF-backed 9/11 Responders and Survivor Health Funding Correction Act, correcting the program’s funding formula and ensuring its long-term solvency.
“Fire fighters who responded to the terrorist attack at Ground Zero answered the call without hesitation,” said General President Edward Kelly. “‘Never forget’ means making sure these brave men and women have access to the healthcare they need to combat the long-term illnesses they’re facing due to their service on 9/11.”
Congress is upholding its promise to 9/11 responders by fully funding the WTCHP, according to 1st District Vice President James Slevin.
“The WTC Health Program is critical for the thousands of first responders already diagnosed with 9/11-related illnesses – and for all those who will be diagnosed in the years ahead,” he said.
“As we approach the 25th anniversary of September 11th, New Yorkers – and all those who rushed to Ground Zero – now know this vital program will continue to be there for them.”
The bill also includes increases for both the Assistance for Firefighters Grant (AFG) and the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) programs by 5.5%, making more than $342 million available nationwide as departments face staffing shortages.
As we approach the 25th anniversary of September 11th, New Yorkers – and all those who rushed to Ground Zero – now know this vital program will continue to be there for them.
1st District Vice President James Slevin
Departments can use these funds to hire additional fire fighters, acquire new apparatus, and better protect their communities and fire fighters on the job.
Additionally, the bill includes a $1 million increase for the Centers for Disease Control (CDC)’s National Fire Fighter Cancer Registry, a two-year extension for Medicare Ambulance Extender Payments, and the IAFF-endorsed Honoring Our Living Donor (HOLD) Act, which improves income replacement for living organ donors who are temporarily unable to return to work while recovering from their surgery.
