National Fire Academy Classes Resume in Emmitsburg After Trump Administration Halt

The Trump administration initially canceled in-person training classes at the National Fire Academy (NFA) in Emmitsburg, Maryland, citing a review of government spending and deeming some programs not 'mission critical.' This decision, made in March, faced swift bipartisan criticism from Maryland lawmakers including Senator Chris Van Hollen and Representative April McClain Delaney, who led a letter with over 60 congressional colleagues demanding the reinstatement of the critical training. After a comprehensive FEMA review acknowledged the value of certain courses for enhancing national readiness, the administration reversed its stance and announced that classes would resume in early June. The NFA, known as a premier training institution for firefighters and first responders nationwide, had been described as essential for community safety and resilience. Lawmakers and first responders expressed relief and praised the reversal, emphasizing the academy's important role in saving lives and supporting emergency services. This restoration also included reopening other FEMA training centers, reflecting a broader reassessment of emergency management education funding.