Summary of HR 3614 - FIRE Act

Bill Title: Fairness, Inclusion, Rehabilitation, and Expungement for Incarcerated Firefighters Act (FIRE Act)

Bill Number: HR 3614

Introduced: May 26, 2025

Status: Introduced in House

Primary Sponsor: Sydney Kamlager-Dove

Cosponsors: LaMonica McIver, Eleanor Holmes Norton, Cleo Fields, Judy Chu, Ted Lieu, John Garamendi, Rashida Tlaib, Maxine Waters

Purpose and Intent

The FIRE Act aims to enhance the rights and protections of incarcerated individuals who serve as firefighters. It seeks to ensure that these individuals are covered under key labor laws, receive appropriate support for reentry into society, and have the opportunity to expunge certain offenses from their records.

Key Provisions

The bill includes several significant provisions:

1. Coverage Under Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA)

   • Ensures that incarcerated firefighters are protected under OSHA, which mandates safe working conditions.

2. Coverage Under Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA)

   • Extends protections of the FLSA to incarcerated firefighters, including minimum wage and overtime pay.

3. Incentives for States

   • Provides incentives for states to enact laws that protect the rights of incarcerated firefighters.

4. Grants for State Support

   • Establishes grants to assist states in implementing protections and support systems for incarcerated firefighters.

5. Reentry Program Grants

   • Allocates funding for programs aimed at helping incarcerated firefighters reintegrate into society after their release.

6. Expungement of Offenses

   • Facilitates the expungement of certain offenses from the records of incarcerated firefighters, aiding in their rehabilitation and reintegration.

Impact

The FIRE Act is expected to have a significant impact on:

• Incarcerated Firefighters: By providing labor protections and support for reentry, the bill aims to improve the working conditions and post-incarceration opportunities for these individuals.
• State Governments: States will receive financial incentives and grants to develop and implement supportive measures for incarcerated firefighters.
• Public Safety: By enhancing the rehabilitation of incarcerated firefighters, the bill may contribute to a more skilled workforce in firefighting and emergency response roles.

Procedural Aspects

• The bill was referred to the Committee on Education and Workforce and the Committee on the Judiciary for consideration. The timeline for further action will be determined by the Speaker of the House.

Conclusion

The FIRE Act represents a legislative effort to address the rights and rehabilitation of incarcerated individuals who serve as firefighters. By ensuring labor protections, providing financial support for states, and facilitating the expungement of records, the bill aims to promote fairness and inclusion for this unique group of workers.