Firefighters put their lives on the line daily to protect our communities, yet the essential research and programs designed to safeguard their health and safety are being dismantled. The shutdown of the National Firefighter Registry (NFR) for Cancer—a groundbreaking initiative aimed at understanding and addressing firefighter cancer risks—is a major setback.

With over $20 million invested and 24,000 firefighters already enrolled, the NFR was poised to provide critical data to identify trends, improve protective measures, and shape policies to enhance firefighter health. Now, this vital research has been halted, wasting prior investments and leaving firefighters vulnerable.

This shutdown is part of a broader trend of undermining crucial institutions, including the National Fire Academy, FEMA, and NIOSH, creating unnecessary delays and uncertainty for the fire service.

Congress has consistently supported these programs, recognizing their importance to firefighter safety and public health. It is imperative that NIOSH and the NFR continue receiving the necessary funding and personnel to carry out their mission. Any further delays could create an unnecessary delay in advancing the safety of our nations responders when research indicates that cancer is the greatest threat to firefighter health and safety.

For decades, firefighters have done more with less—but enough is enough. We implore congress to be a leader for the fire service and restore these vital programs and safeguard firefighter health and safety.