August 1999 - The Pascrell Bill - $1 Billion Per Year For USA FDs
It seems to me that this piece of legislation is nothing but a huge power grab by the Director of FEMA. The bill will give $1 billion per year to FEMA for distribution to local FDs. Some magical FEMA office will materialize to create magical criteria to decide which magical FDs will receive the funds. Why isn't the money given to all FDs based on the population that they serve?
On the other hand, there sure are a lot of FDs in the USA that could use an infusion of cash to buy some modern equipment.
On the other hand, if $1 billion in Federal funds are given to local FDs, then what do you think are the odds that local FDs will see a $2 billion drop in community support (from smaller raffles, rodeos, donations, etc)
Here Is The Full Text Of The Proposed Legislation