Brothers and Sisters,

58th IAFF Convention Convenes in Arlington, Texas

Delegates from across the United States and Canada gathered in Arlington, Texas, for the 58th International Association of Fire Fighters Convention, hosted by the Arlington Fire Fighters Association.

The Convention brought IAFF leaders and delegates together to conduct the important work of our union and address issues directly affecting firefighters, paramedics, and their families. Delegates considered 57 proposed resolutions across six Convention committees, shaping IAFF policy, priorities, funding, member protections, health and safety initiatives, and legislative advocacy.

Much of the real work of an IAFF Convention takes place before resolutions ever reach the Convention floor. Local 1014’s delegation and Executive Board were engaged in the committee process, reviewing proposals, debating their impact on our members and the fire service, and helping shape the policies that will guide the IAFF moving forward.

The resolutions before delegates covered issues ranging from firefighter health and occupational disease to EMS, emerging technology, union organizing, training, member benefits, and federal legislative priorities. The Health & Safety Committee considered measures addressing PPE standards, access to cyanide antidotes at the fireground, and continued research into occupational neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s and ALS.

The Legislative & Political Committee also considered major national priorities, including making Medicare eligibility at age 55 for firefighters and EMS personnel an IAFF legislative priority and pursuing the phased elimination of the FLSA Section 7(k) overtime exemption for firefighters.

The Policy Committee addressed issues that will increasingly affect members at the bargaining table and in the workplace, including a proposal for an IAFF Artificial Intelligence Curriculum Designer to develop labor-focused AI training, evaluate department AI systems for bargaining and privacy impacts, and create model policies and contract language for affiliates.

This committee work is another example of how Local 1014 represents not only our own members, but helps lead the way for firefighters across the country. Through the experience of our Executive Board, our delegates, and our advocacy at the local, state, and national levels, Local 1014 continues to be a strong voice on the issues that define the future of the fire service.
 

The honor recognizes more than 25 years of leadership and advocacy at the Local, state, and national levels. Throughout his service, President Gillotte has helped lead efforts that have resulted in stronger contracts and major legislative and policy victories for firefighters.

His work has included advocacy for expanded cancer presumptions, PTSI presumptions, Peer Support programs, and improvements affecting firefighter health and safety. He has also represented the interests of firefighters and paramedics through his work on the IAFF’s national standing committee on EMS.

The award reflects not only President Gillotte’s years of service, but the collective strength and accomplishments of Local 1014. As delegates from across the IAFF recognized his leadership, they also recognized the work our members, Executive Board, and advocates have done together to improve the lives, careers, health, and safety of firefighters throughout Los Angeles County and across the country.

AB 1383 has cleared another major hurdle, passing the Senate Appropriations Committee on a unanimous 7-0 vote and advancing to the Senate Floor.

The vote follows months of advocacy by California Professional Firefighters, Local 1014, and firefighter unions across the state. Members have testified, contacted legislators and made clear the importance of protecting a strong and secure retirement for California firefighters.

The fight is not over. AB 1383 must now pass the Senate before the August 31 legislative deadline, and opposition has intensified in recent weeks.

Local 1014 will continue working with CPF to push AB 1383 across the finish line. We thank every member who has made their voice heard and urge everyone to stay engaged as the bill enters this critical final stage.