(Washington, DC) Late last night, the House of Representatives approved funding requested by Congressman John Yarmuth (KY-3) for the purchase of emergency back-up generators for the Louisville Fire Department.  The funding is part of the FY2010 Homeland Security Appropriations bill that passed by a vote of 389-37.

“During the wind and ice storms that struck Louisville over the last nine months, as many as nineteen of the city’s fire stations were without power for several days,” said Congressman Yarmuth. “These back-up generators will help ensure our brave first responders have all the resources they need to protect our community during times of crisis.”

The $500,000 will be used to support the Louisville Fire Department’s plan to purchase back-up power generators at 19 of the area’s 21 fire stations, as well as the department’s Automotive Services facility.  

The bill must now be approved by the Senate before heading to the President for his signature.