New Jersey State Firefighters Mutual Benevolent Association

Overview

The New Jersey State Firefighters Mutual Benevolent Association (NJ FMBA) is a nonprofit organization established in 1897. It operates as a labor union representing over 5,000 career firefighters, emergency medical technicians (EMTs), and dispatchers across New Jersey.

History

The NJ FMBA was founded on December 11, 1897, at its first annual convention in Jersey City, New Jersey. Initially, six local fire departments were involved: Jersey City, Paterson, Hoboken, Newark, Trenton, and Camden. The organization's growth has been steady, with its membership expanding significantly over the years to include 107 locals.

Mission Statement

The NJ FMBA's mission is to represent, protect, and educate firefighters, EMTs, and dispatchers throughout New Jersey. It advocates for legislation protecting citizens and first responders' safety at local, state, and federal levels. The organization also works to maintain health benefits, pensions, staffing, and other benefits negotiated through collective bargaining.

Activities and Initiatives

• Advocacy and Representation: The NJ FMBA plays a crucial role in advocacy, particularly in areas like pension reform and legislation affecting firefighters.
• Charitable Contributions: The NJ FMBA Foundation supports various charitable causes, including the Children's Burn Camp and Cancer Research Funds. It has also participated in initiatives like the Atlantic Regional Firefighters Foundation.
• Legislative Focus: The organization actively supports legislation that benefits firefighters and EMTs, such as the Social Security Fairness Act, which has improved retirement benefits for many members.

Structure and Governance

The NJ FMBA is governed by an Executive Board and Trustees, with a structure that includes District Vice Presidents assisting members statewide. The organization maintains strong connections with local, state, and federal levels of government to influence policy benefiting first responders.

Current Initiatives

• Recognition of EMS: The NJ FMBA is currently pushing for the recognition of Emergency Medical Services (EMS) as an essential service in New Jersey to improve funding and support for EMS professionals.
• Pension Management: The organization closely monitors and supports improvements in the Police and Firemen's Retirement System (PFRS) to ensure sustainable pensions for members.

Foundation

The NJ FMBA Foundation, a 501(c)3 organization, supports numerous charitable causes, including burn survivors and families affected by disasters. It also organizes the annual Fallen Heroes 5K Memorial Race to support families of fallen firefighters.