Federal Firefighter Paycheck Protection Act

The bill establishes a temporary funding mechanism that guarantees Federal firefighters receive pay and allowances even when fiscal year 2026 appropriations are not in effect. Continuing appropriations are authorized from Treasury funds not otherwise appropriated until an appropriation is enacted, a regular or continuing resolution is passed, or January 1 2027, whichever comes first. This provision ensures that firefighters’ compensation is not disrupted during gaps in funding. Additionally, the act prohibits any reduction in the number of Federal firefighters during a lapse in discretionary appropriations, protecting employees from being removed from the civil service due to budget shortfalls. The measure applies to all Executive agencies and military departments and is designed to maintain workforce stability during government shutdowns.