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Michael Kirby

Dispatches from Washington

Michael Kirby has worked since 2008 for a credentialed news bureau on Capitol Hill that provides digital video and information services to news organizations across the web. Kirby graduated from the University at Buffalo in 2007 with a BA in philosophy, minoring in history. He is interested in many legislative topics, and always has an eye on public safety-related news because he grew up around the firehouse.

LATEST ARTICLES
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Legislation and Funding
Bill to eliminate Social Security reductions impacting firefighters advances to a vote
The Social Security Fairness Act would eliminate the Windfall Elimination Provision and the Government Pension Offset
September 20, 2024 06:53 PM
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Michael Kirby
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Volunteer Fire Service
NVFC director testifies on OSHA ‘Fire Brigades’ proposed changes
N.C. Chief Tim Bradley warns House panel that new standard would become “economically infeasible” for volunteer fire departments
July 25, 2024 02:36 PM
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Michael Kirby
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Wildfire and Wildland-Urban Interface
‘The need for urgent action could not be greater’: Wildland fire commission shares findings with lawmakers
The Wildland Fire Mitigation and Management Commission members detail recommendations for a Senate committee
March 23, 2024 04:03 PM
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Michael Kirby
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Safety
‘We are not ready’: House testimony focuses on EV, Li-ion battery dangers
In testimony before a House subcommittee, one fire chief stated the training alone will cost fire departments billions
March 04, 2024 03:14 PM
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Michael Kirby
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Lithium-ion battery fires
Fire service leaders testify before Congress about Li-ion battery hazards
The U.S. fire administrator, FDNY chief fire marshal, IAFC president and FSRI executive director detailed lithium-ion battery dangers facing firefighters and the general public
February 16, 2024 07:17 PM
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Michael Kirby
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Legislation and Funding
Wildfire smoke worries a working Congress
Planned Senate hearing, bills find new interest as smoke from Canadian fires reaches D.C.
June 30, 2023 11:36 AM
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Michael Kirby
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Legislation and Funding
Senate passes Fire Grants and Safety Act, bill moves to House
Urgency drives Congress to act before program expires
April 24, 2023 01:25 PM
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Michael Kirby
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Legislation and Funding
Senators probe response to Ohio train derailment
Ohio Western Reserve Joint Fire District Chief David Comstock urged increased funding for grants and safety programs to support hazmat training for firefighters
March 27, 2023 12:07 PM
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Michael Kirby
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Legislation and Funding
The 117th Congress nears the rearview, public safety in focus
A look back and ahead as a tumultuous session turns to lame duck
November 07, 2022 11:19 AM
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Michael Kirby
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Legislation and Funding
President Biden signs law extending PSOB benefits for PTSD, acute stress, suicide
The Public Safety Officer Support Act supports first responders who experienced PTSD or died by suicide following exposure to certain traumatic events
August 18, 2022 10:55 AM
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Michael Kirby
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