Every day across the United States, thousands of firefighters respond to emergencies, save lives, and protect communities — yet many are still classified as “volunteers,” receiving little to no compensation for professional‑level work. This outdated system is pushing departments to the breaking point.

It’s time for the law to catch up with reality.

 
The Problem:
Federal labor laws under the FLSA prevent fair compensation for on‑call firefighters. Aside from minimal reimbursements, departments cannot legally pay firefighters for the time they spend:

• Completing mandatory certifications
• Attending required training
• Meeting participation requirements
• Responding to emergencies
• Maintaining readiness and equipment

Firefighters today operate under the same standards, risks, and expectations as paid departments — but without the protections or compensation.

This outdated model is causing:

• Declining membership
• Longer response times
• Increased community risk
• Higher homeowners insurance rates
• Burnout and financial strain on firefighters

This is no longer “volunteering.” This is professional emergency service without professional recognition.

 
What Needs to Change:

We call on Congress and state legislatures to modernize labor laws by:

1. Reclassifying operational firefighters as Paid On‑Call Employees

• Firefighters who meet professional standards should receive fair compensation for their service

2. Establishing federal protections, including:

• Fair pay standards
• Liability and worker protections
• Access to retirement and injury benefits
• Support for training and readiness

3. Funding the transition
Rural and combination departments need federal support to move away from unsustainable volunteer‑only staffing models.

4. Defining true volunteer service
Community volunteers should be recognized — but not used to fill essential emergency staffing gaps.

 
Why This Matters:
Emergency response is a core responsibility of government. Communities depend on firefighters during structure fires, medical emergencies, vehicle accidents, natural disasters, and hazardous incidents.

But the system is failing.

As training requirements rise and call volumes increase, volunteer participation is dropping nationwide. Departments are struggling to staff rigs. Response times are growing. Communities are at risk.

Supporting firefighters means supporting public safety.

 
Take Action!
If you believe the people who risk their lives to protect our communities deserve:

• Fair recognition
• Fair compensation
• Legal protections
• Sustainable working conditions

-Please sign and share this petition.

Together, we can modernize the fire service, strengthen public safety, and ensure firefighters receive the respect and protection they’ve earned.

Sign now to support America’s firefighters.