A Century Of Service
From 1923 to today: A journey of service, sacrifice, and success.
1923
Our story is one of dedication, resilience, and significant achievements that have shaped the landscape of firefighting in Iowa.
It began on April 27th, 1923, in Des Moines, Iowa, where a dedicated committee established our original charter. This momentous occasion laid the groundwork for what would evolve into a powerful advocate for firefighters across the state.
It began on April 27th, 1923, in Des Moines, Iowa, where a dedicated committee established our original charter. This momentous occasion laid the groundwork for what would evolve into a powerful advocate for firefighters across the state.
By October 1st, 1924, we hosted our first State Convention. This event marked the beginning of an annual tradition, bringing together members to discuss the future and address the challenges facing our profession.
Early on, we were recognized for our commitment to being at the forefront of firefighter advocacy within Iowa and nationally. We became the second state association to charter with the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF), making us the third overall state and provincial association to do so.
Early on, we were recognized for our commitment to being at the forefront of firefighter advocacy within Iowa and nationally. We became the second state association to charter with the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF), making us the third overall state and provincial association to do so.
1924
1959
One of our landmark achievements came in the 1959 legislative session, where we successfully passed legislation recognizing heart, lung, and respiratory diseases as occupational diseases.
This was a significant victory, establishing presumption laws that benefited firefighters facing health issues due to their service.
This was a significant victory, establishing presumption laws that benefited firefighters facing health issues due to their service.
In 1964, we played a crucial role in obtaining a 56-hour work week for firefighters through statewide legislation, improving working conditions, and ensuring a better work-life balance for our members.
1964
1968
The year 1968 stands out in our history for two significant advocacy efforts. We led the fight to guarantee free speech protections for firefighters, a move prompted by an incident in Cedar Rapids.
That same year, we ensured legislation was passed allowing firefighters elected to public office to take necessary time off, protecting their roles as community servants in both capacities.
That same year, we ensured legislation was passed allowing firefighters elected to public office to take necessary time off, protecting their roles as community servants in both capacities.
In the 1990s, we focused on securing the future for our members and their families. By 1990, we had worked tirelessly to create the current retirement and disability system for professional fire and police personnel, which was implemented in 1992.
This system has since been a cornerstone of financial security for countless members and their loved ones.
This system has since been a cornerstone of financial security for countless members and their loved ones.
1990
2009
Our most recent significant legislative achievement came in 2009 when we advanced legislation that created a work-related presumption for 14 types of cancer, recognizing the heightened risk firefighters face and ensuring they receive the support and care they need for work-related illnesses.
The IPFF's legacy is one of unwavering dedication to improving the profession, the health and safety of our members, and the communities we are sworn to protect.
Our achievements are a testament to the collective effort and solidarity of our members, past and present, who have contributed to our enduring legacy.
Our achievements are a testament to the collective effort and solidarity of our members, past and present, who have contributed to our enduring legacy.
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