Washington DC, March 10, 2008:  For more than a decade, the leadership of the Hamden Professional Firefighters have attended the IAFF Legislative Conference in Washington DC.  This important labor event is responsible for the coordinated effort to lobby the US Congress to enact legislation which effects firefighters.  Thousands of professional firefighters from across the United States attend this conference and listen to speakers and legislators...from both sides of the politcal isle...before meeting with their individual representatives to discuss legislation.

The conference set an ambitious agenda for our membership on the first day of the conference.  From an opening speech by General President Harold Schaitberger which engaged and motivated the assembly by remembering the accomplishments of our combined union leadership, to a presentation by the Governor of Montana, the Honorable Brian Schweitzer [D], on energy and the country's appetite for fossil fuels; and the correlation with the world economy.

Legislation being followed by the IAFF includes: The Public Safety Employer-Employee Relations Act, Federal Firefighters Presumptive Disability Act, Early Retiree Healthcare, and Firefighter Safety Standards.  Thaddeus McCotter [R-MI 11] spoke on the Republican Policy Committee's review of it's relationship with labor, and James Shannon the President and CEO of the NFPA addressed the firefighters on the importance of standards like staffing levels, and other safety issues.  To view the speeches and presentations from today, visit the following UPFFA link by clicking here.

The highlight of the Monday session however, was the appearance by US Senator and former Presidential Candidate Christopher Dodd [D].  Senator Dodd was introduced to the conference to a standing ovation.  IAFF General President Schaitberger described Senator Dodd's long history of support for firefighters, and the groundbreaking legislation that our senior Connecticut Senator has authored during his 30 years of public service.

Senator Dodd authored the FIRE ACT and was an original co-sponsor of the SAFER ACT.  He renewed his commitment to continued funding of both initiatives, and stirred the crowd as he remembered the unselfish service of IAFF members as they serve in the military overseas.  Because of his longstanding and distinguished record of support, our General President conferred official union membership on Senator Dodd.  This honor has happened only 4 times in 90 years, and was greatfully accepted by the Senator.

Following his appearance, Senator Dodd met with the Connecticut delegation, which included Local 2687.  Pictured here, [left to right] L-2687 VP Kurt Vogt Sr., Secretary Dave Beaton, US Senator Dodd, And L-2687 President Gary Merwede pose for quick picture, before the Senator met with UPFFA President Peter Carozza and the rest of our brother and sister firefighters.

To see part of the introduction and appearance of US Senator Chris Dodd, please click the link below: