Senator Jeff Howe (R-Rockville) was recently recognized by the Minnesota Fire Association Coalition (MNFAC) for his work on issues that affect the Minnesota Fire Service. 

During his time in the Senate, Howe has been a longtime champion of firefighter needs and priorities. In 2021 and 2022, Sen. Howe worked on the Hometown Heroes Act, which addressed the alarmingly high occurrences of cancer, cardiac issues, and emotional trauma facing firefighters across the state. The bill established a critical care insurance policy for firefighters diagnosed with these ailments. In 2019, Howe also worked on language to restrict the use of harmful flame-retardant chemicals in certain products, therefore protecting firefighters from the health risks associated with said toxic chemicals.

“I am honored and humbled to be recognized by the Coalition,” said Howe.“Firefighters put their lives on the line every day when they go to work—they are always at-risk when keeping our communities safe. I spent 27 years in the fire service and have seen these heroic men and women at work. As legislators, we must incentivize this noble career by providing resources and support for the heroes we call upon when we’re in trouble. I will continue to champion legislation that increases the safety and quality of life for firefighters across the state.”

MNFAC is made up of four fire organizations: the Minnesota State Fire Departments Association, the Minnesota State Fire Chiefs Association, the Minnesota Chapter of the International Association of Arson Investigators, and the Fire Marshals Association of Minnesota.