‍PRESS RELEASE

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Contact Information:

Professional Firefighters Association of New Jersey (PFANJ)

Matthew Caliente, President

mcaliente@newjerseyfirefighers.org

Release Date:
November 4, 2024

‍‍‍FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

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PFANJ COMMENDS CONGRESSMAN JOSH GOTTHEIMER FOR HIS SUPPORT AND LEADERSHIP IN ADVOCATING FOR FIRST RESPONDERS

Trenton, NJ – November 4, 2024 – The Professional Firefighters Association of New Jersey (PFANJ) expresses its deep appreciation for Congressman Josh Gottheimer's steadfast commitment to first responders. During a meeting this past Friday, PFANJ leadership discussed their priorities with the Congressman, including additional steps to protect first responders in the state of New Jersey. The Congressman’s views align closely with PFANJ’s vision for a safer and stronger state under our next president, Congress, and governor.

“Since his first day in Congress, Josh Gottheimer has been an unwavering ally to first responders, fighting tirelessly for our needs in Washington,” said PFANJ President Matthew Caliente. “In today’s challenging political environment, his leadership as a uniter of all first responders has been essential. He has effectively brought together law enforcement, firefighters, and EMS professionals under a shared mission to serve and protect our communities.  It’s clear that he will always get our backs, and look out for Jersey families and communities.

Gottheimer has been instrumental in increasing funding for firefighter cancer prevention, securing essential mental health resources, and supporting key programs such as the SAFER Grant and AFG funding. His advocacy efforts, including his push to repeal the State and Local Tax (SALT) and the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP), along with his backing of the Public Safety Officers’ Benefits Improvement Act (PSOB), demonstrate a deep commitment to addressing the unique challenges faced by first responders.

“Congressman Gottheimer’s work has made a tangible difference in the lives of those who risk their lives every day to keep our communities safe,” President Caliente added. “We stand with Josh, just as he has always stood with us. Congressman Gottheimer embodies the qualities we’re looking for in our next governor.”

The PFANJ looks forward to continued collaboration with Congressman Gottheimer as he remains a dedicated advocate for first responders in New Jersey and throughout the country.

The Professional Firefighters Association of New Jersey (PFANJ), was established and chartered as a State Association by the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) on October 29, 1929. It is a member of the AFL-CIO. The PFANJ represents nearly 3,500 Firefighters, Emergency Medical Technicians, Instructors, and Dispatchers though its over 60 locals. This includes over 3,000 of New Jersey’s approximately 6,000 professional firefighters. Its local affiliates represent first responders who work in dispatch centers, academies, airports, fire districts, suburban municipalities, and the state’s largest and busiest urban fire departments.

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