"Firefighting can have lasting physical and mental consequences, and advocates argue it's time for the government to do more to help."
"A bipartisan group of lawmakers introduced a bill Tuesday to improve pay and benefits for federal firefighters, who often struggle to eke out a living while doing grueling, life-threatening work.
The legislation comes from Reps. Joe Neguse (D-Colo.), Katie Porter (D-Calif.) and Liz Cheney (R-Wyo.), who all represent states that have faced serious wildfire devastation.
The bill seeks to raise federal firefighters’ hourly pay to at least $20 an hour and salaries to at least $20,000. It would also guarantee these firefighters receive health care, including robust mental health support; improve their paid leave and retirement benefits; and secure funding for housing and tuition assistance."
Lydia O'Connor reports for HuffPost October 19, 2021.
SEE ALSO:
"‘Nobody Cares I Have Nowhere To Live’: Wildland Firefighters Struggle With Homelessness" (Guardian)
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