On March 17th, 2009, seven representatives of the NMPFFA and Albuquerque Area FF's Local 244  County and City Chapters paid a visit to our Nation's Capitol during the IAFF's Legislative Conference.  Members in attendance were John Murtagh, Kevin McClellan, and John Davis (all representing NMPFFA) Gary Smith, Tony Pitarelli, Danny Valenzuela, and Kerry Horton ( L244 County Chapter and City Chapter).  Our tour included stops at Congressman Heinrich, Lujan and Teagues offices and also stops at Senator Udall and Bingaman's offices.  We were able to personally meet with Congressman Lujan and Teague, also personally with Senator Udall.  Our issues were two-fold; We first addressed issues on the National level such as HB 413 National Collective Bargaining, Re- Authorization for FIRE and SAFER, Firefighter Fatality Reduction Act, and Federal Presumptive Disability.  We then transitioned to state issues such as SAFER and FIRE Act funding (BCFD), Los Alamos Firefighters ongoing issue with LA County, and management relations issues in the Southern Region with Deming, Las Cruces and Carlsbad.  Not only were our representatives shocked at some of the issues we are facing but their staff appeared equally concerned.   I must say our support at the Legislative level is impressive to say the least! 

That evening (which happened to be St. Patty's Day!) we were joined at the Congressional Reception that the IAFF puts on by Congressman Heinrich, Congressman Lujan, Senator Udalls Chief of Staff, and Senator Bingamans Director of PR and Chief Aid on governmental affairs.  We were able to get Harold to do a couple of photo ops which should be up soon on the IAFF's webpage, thanks Danny!!  All in all it was a very successful trip.  On a final note, Senator Bingamans staff is most impressed with our preparedness (as compared to lobbyists!) and courtesy.  Well done to everyone involved, your knowlege, experience and professionalism will and has payed dividends.

John Davis, North Region VP NMPFFA