Firefighters, Montana Democratic Party Decry GOP Attacks on Firefighters

Helena, Mont. – Republicans in the Montana State Legislature have introduced a bill that would eliminate hundreds of firefighters' jobs throughout the state, and could have serious consequences on public safety. The plan aims to turn professional firefighters into volunteers.

Bob Bergren, retired Havre firefighter and past Speaker of the Montana House, released this statement about the bill:

"Montana firefighters are some of the best-trained public safety professionals anywhere in the country. We put our lives on the line to protect our communities, and we're proud to make that sacrifice. Fighting fires is not a part-time job, and you don't risk your life for nothing.
    
"These Republican attacks on firefighters need to stop. If we lose professional firefighters in the state we will put more people out of work in the middle of the recession, and put the health and safety of our communities at risk."

Ted Dick, executive director of the Montana Democratic Party, had this to say about the bill:

"What do Republican lawmakers have against our firefighters and the jobs they do? First, Congressman Dennis Rehberg sued the Billings firefighters. Then, he voted against the 9/11 first responders bill that provides these heroes with much needed benefits. Now, GOP lawmakers at the state-level are trying to eliminate these jobs all together.
    
"The last thing our economy needs right now is more layoffs, let alone to firefighters that protect our communities and keep our families safe. They should be commended for their heroism, not fired."