PA
Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB299

Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB299

Introduced
1/31/23  

Caption

In personal income tax, providing for contributions for grants to fire companies and emergency medical services companies.

Impact

The bill's implementation is expected to positively impact state laws by enhancing the financial resources available to fire companies and EMS. This could lead to improved emergency response capabilities, better training for personnel, and the acquisition of necessary equipment. As these services are crucial for public safety, the additional funding may result in more effective responses to emergencies, potentially saving lives and property.

Summary

SB299 proposes a provision in personal income tax legislation that allows for contributions to be made for grants supporting fire companies and emergency medical services (EMS) organizations. This initiative aims to bolster funding and resources available to essential public safety services, which are often underfunded and face increasing operational demands. By allowing taxpayers to contribute through their income tax, the bill seeks to create a sustainable funding mechanism that can aid in addressing the financial challenges faced by these critical services.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding SB299 appears to be supportive, especially among first responders and public safety advocates who recognize the vital role that adequate funding plays in their operations. However, there may be concerns among taxpayers regarding the impact of income tax contributions on their overall financial obligations. Overall, the bill is largely viewed through a lens of improving public safety, which resonates well with many legislators and community members.

Contention

Potential points of contention could arise regarding the sourcing of contributions and how effectively the funds are allocated to the intended recipients. Critics may question whether this funding model could lead to disparities in support for fire and EMS services across different regions or how transparent the grant distribution process is. Additionally, discussions may emerge about the sustainability of such a funding approach and whether relying on taxpayer contributions for critical public services is prudent in the long term.

Latest SB299 Activity

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA SB211

In personal income tax, providing for contributions for grants to fire companies and emergency medical services companies.

PA SB466

In Commonwealth services, further providing for powers and duties and for curriculum, training and education certification management system; in grants to fire companies and emergency medical services companies, further providing for award of grants to fire companies and for award of grants to emergency medical services companies and providing for expiration of authority; and making a repeal.

PA SB582

In grants to fire companies and emergency medical services companies, further providing for award of grants.

PA HB680

In grants to fire companies and emergency medical services companies, further providing for definitions and for award of grants.

PA HB1296

In registration of vehicles, providing for contributions to the Fire Company Grant Program and for contributions to the Emergency Medical Services Grant Program.

PA SB531

In grants to fire companies and emergency medical services companies, further providing for award of grants.

PA HB2407

In general provisions relating to emergency management services, further providing for definitions; in Commonwealth services, further providing for assistance to fire companies and EMS companies, for State Fire Commissioner and for curriculum, training and education certification management system; in grants to fire companies and emergency medical services companies, further providing for definitions, for publication and notice, for award of grants, for consolidation incentive, for establishment, for publication and notice and for award of grants, repealing provisions relating to COVID-19 Crisis Fire Company and Emergency Medical Services Grant Program and to COVID-19 Crisis Fire Company and Emergency Medical Services Grant Program, further providing for allocation of appropriated funds, repealing provisions relating to Emergency Medical Services COVID-19 Recovery Grant Program, to expiration of authority relating to COVID-19 Crisis Fire Company and Emergency Medical Services Grant Program and to expiration of authority relating to Emergency Medical Services COVID-19 Recovery Grant Program and further providing for special provisions and for annual reports; and making transfers.

PA HB2091

In grants to fire companies and emergency medical services companies, further providing for expiration of authority.

PA HB182

In grants to fire companies and emergency medical services companies, establishing the Firefighter Safety Equipment Grant Program in the Office of State Fire Commissioner and the Firefighter Safety Equipment Grant Fund.

PA SB1099

In grants to fire companies and emergency medical services companies, further providing for definitions, for publication and notice, for award of grants, for consolidation incentive, for publication and notice and for award of grants, repealing provisions relating to COVID-19 Crisis Fire Company and Emergency Medical Services Grant Program and to Emergency Medical Services COVID-19 Recovery Grant Program, further providing for expiration of authority, repealing provisions relating to expiration of authority relating to COVID-19 Crisis Fire Company and Emergency Medical Services Grant Program and to expiration of authority relating to Emergency Medical Services COVID-19 Recovery Grant Program and further providing for annual reports.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.