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The Los Angeles City Fire Department will shorten its fire academy to prepare for possible terminations related to the looming vaccine mandate deadline.
The academy schedule would be cut by 320 hours - from 22 weeks to 14 - under the proposal by Fire Chief Ralph Terrazas.
Andrew Glazier, who served on the Fire Commission until earlier this year, told LAist.com, “I would be worried that it's compromising safety for probationary firefighters and for the people of Los Angeles.”
Officials contend the 14 week academy would put them in line with other agencies including San Diego at 18 weeks and Los Angeles County at 16 weeks.
The Los Angeles Fire Department has nearly 3,500 employees with approximately 115 facing the possibility of termination due to non-compliance with the mandate.
The city is currently evaluating another 300 plus requests for medical and religious exemptions. If unapproved, members can appeal through the chief for reversal.
