Connecticut House Bill HB05053

Connecticut 2011 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/5/11
• Refer: 1/5/11

Caption

An Act Concerning Volunteer Fire Police Patrols.

Impact

Should HB 05053 be enacted, it will have direct implications for how volunteer fire police patrols are funded and supported within the state. This bill is designed to support local emergency response operations by recognizing the vital role of these volunteer groups in protecting citizens and managing incidents on public highways. By enabling these volunteer organizations to access state funding, the bill is expected to improve the overall emergency response infrastructure in Connecticut, particularly in areas prone to accidents or emergencies on high-traffic roads.

Summary

House Bill 05053 aims to amend section 7-323r of the general statutes to expand the eligibility of a supplemental grant award remittance program to include volunteer fire police patrols that provide emergency response services on limited access highways. The bill reflects an effort to enhance the resources available for these volunteer services that are critical for public safety on major highways. By formalizing grant eligibility, the bill seeks to bolster these organizations' capabilities in responding to emergencies more effectively.

Contention

However, not all discussions surrounding the bill have been without contention. Some legislators may raise concerns regarding the allocation of state funds and whether the expansion of the grant program adequately addresses the broader needs of emergency services across different regions. Questions about the sufficiency of funding and how it would be distributed among various volunteer organizations could serve as points of debate. Overall, the bill positions volunteer fire police as essential players in highway safety, but it may also invite conversations about equity in resource distribution among diverse emergency service providers.