Must Read Alaska: Murkowski to chair ‘Fire Services Caucus’
She may no longer be chair of the powerful Energy and Natural Resources Committee as of Jan. 20, but Sen. Lisa Murkowski is landing on her feet.
Alaska’s senior senator has been named the chair of the Congressional Fire Services Caucus. The caucus works to support the nation’s firefighters. It’s likely the first of many such appointments that the Murkowski will announce in coming days as the new Senate and House organizations take shape.
“I will continue to advocate for the health & safety of our fire service members, empowering them to serve & protect the public to the best of their abilities,” she wrote. “Throughout my time as a U.S. Senator, I’ve developed relationships with some of Alaska’s bravest men and women: our Fire Chiefs and firefighters. I’ve worked on a number of initiatives at the federal level of great importance to the fire service. In recent years, as communities across Alaska have faced record-high fire seasons, I met with firefighters—career and volunteer—and saw firsthand the dedication and grit it takes to do their job. And in spite of COVID-19, our fire services have never faltered; they adjusted operations as needed and continued toward their mission to protect their respective communities and each other,” said Senator Murkowski. “I’m proud to chair the Congressional Fire Services Caucus in the 117th Congress in support of firefighters who face disasters head-on, with great courage and commitment. I will continue to advocate for the health and safety of our fire service members, empowering them to serve and protect the public to the best of their abilities.”
Co-chairing the caucus are Sen. Jon Tester, D-Montana, , Sen. Tom Carper, D-Delaware, Rep. Steny Hoyer, D-Maryland, Rep. Bill Pascrell, D-New Jersey, Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, and Rep. Mike Bost, R-Illinois.
By: Suzanne Downing
Source: Must Read Alaska
