H.R. 3614: Fairness, Inclusion, Rehabilitation, and Expungement for Incarcerated Firefighters Act

This bill, titled the Fairness, Inclusion, Rehabilitation, and Expungement for Incarcerated Firefighters Act or FIRE Act, is designed to improve the labor rights and opportunities for incarcerated individuals who perform firefighting tasks. Below is a summary of its key provisions:

1. Coverage under Labor and Safety Laws

The bill extends the protections of the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) to incarcerated firefighters. This ensures that they have workplace safety standards comparable to other employees. It also amends the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) to recognize incarcerated firefighters as employees, thus giving them rights to fair wages and working conditions.

2. Incentives for States

It incentivizes states to implement these protections by providing grants. States that adopt laws to safeguard incarcerated firefighters will receive financial assistance to help cover the costs associated with these protections, ensuring compliance with safety standards.

3. Grants for Safety and Health Programs

The bill establishes a grant program administered by the Secretary of Labor specifically for states. These grants will help states amend their occupational safety and health laws to include provisions for incarcerated firefighters and to enforce these laws through inspections and enforcement actions.

4. Incarcerated Firefighter Reentry Programs

Grants will also be available for reentry programs aimed at helping previously incarcerated firefighters transition back into the workforce. These programs can offer job training, placement services, and mentoring to assist with reintegration after incarceration.

5. Expungement of Criminal Records

The bill includes a process that allows eligible incarcerated firefighters to petition for the expungement of certain criminal offenses upon successful completion of their probation and other court-imposed requirements. This aims to alleviate barriers in employment for those who have served their time and fulfilled their obligations.

6. Reporting Requirements

States and the Bureau of Prisons will be required to submit annual reports on workplace safety and health conditions in correctional facilities. This includes documenting any injuries or fatalities among incarcerated firefighters and any compliance issues with safety standards.

7. Definitions and General Provisions

The bill defines key terms, including "incarcerated firefighter" and outlines the requirements for expungement eligibility. It details how expungement orders can restore individuals to their former legal status prior to conviction, shielding them from having to disclose expunged offenses in most situations.

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