A bill that would affect federal wildland firefighters, which is very similar to those that have failed in Congress several times in the past, has been reintroduced in the House of Representatives. Named the “Wildland Firefighters Protection Act”, H.R. 2858 would establish a “wildland firefighter occupational series that will more accurately reflect the variety of duties performed by wildland firefighters”. For decades federal wildland firefighters have worked in various technician or professional job series that are not specifically related to firefighting.
The bill would also begin a pilot program during which firefighters would receive “portal to portal” pay while they are assigned to an emergency incident.
Last year’s bill died in committee. This version was introduced by Rep. Diana DeGette from Colorado on July 30, 2013. No cosponsors are listed on the Library of Congress Thomas site.
