The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) Board of Directors met from September 28-October 1, 2011, in Lake George, NY. The meeting drew 62 board members representing 40 states.
Over a dozen committees met regarding topics ranging from recruitment and retention to homeland security to health and safety. In addition, the board tackled issues including membership and advocacy as well as held a strategic planning session.
One area of focus during the fall meeting was the NVFC’s Legislative Priorities. The board voted to add Public Safety Officers’ Benefit Reform to the list.
The revised Legislative Priorities are as follows:
- Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program
- Public Safety Officer’s Benefit Reform
- Nationwide Broadband Communications Network (H.R. 607/S. 911)
- Volunteer Emergency Services Recruitment and Retention Act (H.R. 376)
- Volunteer Responder Incentive Protection Reauthorization Act (S. 933/H.R. 2353)
- Volunteer Firefighter and EMS Job Protection Act
- U.S. Fire Administration
- Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act (H.R. 1792/S. 1035)
- Supporting Emergency Responders Volunteer Efforts Act (S. 932/H.R. 2488)
- Good Samaritan Volunteer Firefighter Assistance Act
Learn more about each priority on the NVFC web site at www.nvfc.org/resources/legislativeaffairs/priorities/.
Additional highlights include:
- The NVFC endorsed the Transportation Safety Advisory Group Next Generation 911 “What’s Next” report and that the NVFC engage as a stakeholder through the Radio/Wireless Committee in the future.
- The NVFC’s EMS/Rescue Section held its biannual meeting. Among the topics discussed was the need to develop a strategic plan for the Section.
- The board voted to launch a grassroots advocacy recruitment campaign, which will encourage more people to sign up for Legislative Action Alerts through the NVFC’s Capwiz advocacy tool.
- The NVFC adopted a resolution to support the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation’s safety initiatives and the International Association of Fire Chiefs-Safety, Health, and Survival Section’s Rules of Engagement for Firefighter Survival.
- John Proels, National Director of the Local Assistance State Team (LAST) Program, National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, provided the board with an overview and information on the LAST Program and how it aids in funeral planning and the submission of PSOB claims.
The NVFC board is made up of a Director from 49 state fire associations. Each state may also appoint an Alternate Director. The board meets twice a year to discuss topics of importance to the volunteer fire service, vote on key issues, hold committee meetings, and determine the direction of the organization. This year marks the 35th anniversary of the founding of the NVFC.
