Connecticut House Bill HB05301

Connecticut 2020 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/26/20
• Refer: 2/26/20

Caption

An Act Requiring The Remittance Of Supplemental Grant Awards To Local Volunteer Fire Companies.

Impact

The enactment of HB 5301 would directly affect the funding structure for volunteer fire services in the state, ensuring that these essential services receive monetary assistance when responding to emergencies on designated limited access highways. This bill is expected to improve response times and the overall efficacy of fire services in regions that are often at risk of underfunding. The funding support provided through this bill is crucial as these volunteer companies play vital roles in community safety and emergency management.

Summary

House Bill 5301, titled 'An Act Requiring The Remittance Of Supplemental Grant Awards To Local Volunteer Fire Companies,' proposes a program administered by the State Fire Administrator aimed at providing financial support to local volunteer fire services engaged in emergency response operations on specific highways. The bill mandates that for each emergency service provided, eligible volunteer fire companies will receive either a direct payment of $100 or credits of equivalent value to utilize for services offered by the Commission on Fire Prevention and Control. This measure aims to enhance the capabilities of local fire departments, particularly in critical response scenarios.

Contention

Critics of the bill may raise concerns regarding the specific eligibility criteria for the grant funding, particularly the provision that excludes responses to vehicle fires on the Berlin Turnpike unless they are specifically motor vehicle fires. This limitation could potentially restrict financial support for fire companies responding to other emergencies in that area. Additionally, debates may arise regarding the adequacy and sustainability of funding sources for this program, ensuring that the financial assistance remains consistent and reliable over time.