DIGEST
The digest printed below was prepared by House Legislative Services. It constitutes no part of
the legislative instrument. The keyword, one-liner, abstract, and digest do not constitute part of
the law or proof or indicia of legislative intent. [R.S. 1:13(B) and 24:177(E)]
Berthelot HB No. 339
Abstract: Allows for the use of public funds by a fire protection district, municipal fire
department, or volunteer fire department for the implementation of length of service
awards program for volunteer firefighters.
Present law allows fire protection districts, municipal fire departments, and volunteer fire
departments to use public funds in connection with certain activities such as the purchase of
recognitions of achievement not to exceed $100 and refreshments for firefighters while at
meetings or training. Present law further specifies that public funds can be used to pay or defray
reasonable travel expenses at an educational conference.
Proposed law retains present law and in addition allows for the use of public funds by fire
districts, municipal fire departments, and volunteer fire departments for the implementation of
length of service awards programs, which provide a monetary benefit, based on service, to
eligible volunteer firefighters. Provides that the program is not a vested right and does not entitle
recipients to other benefits. Provides that the award is not permanent.
(Amends R.S. 40:1510)
Summary of Amendments Adopted by House
Committee Amendments Proposed by House Committee on Municipal, Parochial and
Cultural Affairs to the original bill.
1. Specifies that the length of service award program is not a vested right, does not entitle the
recipient to any other benefits not directly related to the program, and may be discontinued at any
time.