Delegates at the IAFF’s 58th Convention took bold action to meet the challenges of today’s fire service and prepare for what comes next.
Resolutions adopted in Arlington set a course for the IAFF to become the authority on fire and EMS training, confront emerging health risks and technological advancements, strengthen the union’s ability to deliver for members, and create opportunities for retirees to stay engaged with the union.
Among the most significant actions:
Resolution 11: Establishing the IAFF as a Leader in Fire Service Training and Professional Development. The resolution calls for a comprehensive assessment of fire service training needs across the United States and Canada, and directs IAFF headquarters staff to create a strategic plan to present at the 59th Convention in Cleveland.
Resolution 27: Artificial Intelligence Curriculum Designer. As the use of AI expands, the resolution funds new IAFF expertise to help affiliates understand and evaluate the technology and develop protections for members.
Resolution 12: Establishment of International Membership Opportunities Through Global Locals. Having received nearly 300 membership inquiries in two years from fire fighters on five continents outside North America, delegates approved the creation of IAFF Global. The initiative will facilitate international education, training, and fire and EMS safety programming for fire fighters and emergency medical workers worldwide, further cementing the IAFF’s position as the worldwide leader in fire fighter advocacy.
Resolution 10: Increasing Organizing Resources. On the heels of two years of record membership growth, delegates voted to expand the IAFF’s organizing efforts. The resolution provides the resources to support internal organizing and the chartering of new Locals. It advances the aspiration in the preamble of the IAFF’s Constitution & By-Laws “to organize all fire fighters and emergency medical and rescue workers” and build greater collective strength across the union.
Resolution 24: Providing Membership Opportunities for Retirees. Delegates also voted to give retired IAFF members a pathway to remain in the union. Under the resolution, every affiliate will have three years to add an Active-Retiree membership category in its Constitution and By-Laws. Each Local will determine the rights, responsibilities, dues, and eligibility requirements for its Active-Retiree members.
Resolution 57: Strengthening the Brand of the IAFF State & Provincial Associations. Delegates adopted a resolution encouraging State and Provincial Associations to adopt a common naming format – IAFF [State/Province Name] – to make it clearer who represents professional fire fighters and emergency medical workers in the U.S. and Canada. The resolution, which preserves the autonomy and governance of each association, also extends communications, financial, and legal support to associations that make the transition.
Resolution 16: PPE Manufacturers Code of Conduct. Since being elected in 2021, General President Edward Kelly has made protecting fire fighters from unnecessary exposure to carcinogens one of the union’s top priorities. The resolution recognizes advances in independent research and standards governing firefighting gear, and highlights the significance of the IAFF’s Manufacturers and Suppliers Code of Conduct. PPE and uniform manufacturers who adhere to the safety standards outlined in the code will be eligible for sponsorship and advertising opportunities with the IAFF.
Resolution 54: Support for Research into Occupational Neurodegenerative Disorders Among Fire Fighters. Partnering with organizations like the Muscular Dystrophy Association and led by the IAFF’s Science and Research department, the resolution commits the union to advancing research into ALS, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, and other conditions that may be linked to fire fighter occupational exposures.
These resolutions – among 57 adopted in Arlington – prepare the IAFF for the future while staying focused on the needs of members, families, and the job today.
Watch highlights from the IAFF’s 58th Convention, including remarks from General President Kelly and General Secretary-Treasurer Frank Líma.
