A bill for an act authorizing length of service award programs for volunteer fire fighters, volunteer emergency medical care providers, and reserve peace officers, and making appropriations.(Formerly HF 755, HSB 197.)
With the establishment of this program, municipalities that choose to adopt LOSAP will gain the ability to offer financial incentives to retain and motivate volunteer service members. This is particularly impactful for local services which often face staffing challenges, and the ability to provide such benefits could enhance community responses to emergencies. The bill includes the creation of a grant fund, managed by the Department of Revenue, which will provide financial assistance to municipalities that implement these programs, thereby facilitating fiscal support for local governments. An appropriation of $1.5 million is designated from the sports wagering receipts fund to support these grants in the fiscal year 2025-2026.
House File 1002 (HF1002) aims to authorize municipalities in Iowa to establish Length of Service Award Programs (LOSAP) for volunteer firefighters, volunteer emergency medical care providers, and reserve peace officers. The bill empowers local governing bodies to create guidelines for these programs, which will provide awards to volunteers based on length of service. The objective is to recognize and reward the dedication of these individuals who contribute substantially to community safety without financial compensation. The awards under this program will treat benefits in accordance with specific tax provisions from the Internal Revenue Code, establishing them as tax-deferred.
While the bill has garnered support from various stakeholders emphasizing the importance of securing volunteers for essential community services, notable concerns may arise regarding the sustainability of such programs amid changing financial landscapes for municipalities. Critics argue about potential fiscal burdens on local governments in ensuring consistent funding for the awards and managing the additional responsibilities introduced by establishing eligibility and distribution guidelines. Moreover, the reliance on revenue from sports wagering raises questions about the appropriateness and long-term viability of funding assistance for public safety programs.