Pennsylvania House Bill HB1109

Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/5/23
• Refer: 5/5/23

Caption

Providing for real property emergency services funds in municipalities.

Impact

The bill aims to enhance public safety by ensuring that local emergency services are adequately funded and equipped. Municipalities will use the real property emergency services funds for vital expenditures, including the maintenance of firehouses, salaries of emergency responders, and the purchase of medical equipment necessary for emergency medical service. The annual reporting and auditing provisions in the act aim to facilitate transparency and proper allocation of funds at the municipal level.

Summary

House Bill 1109, known as the Real Property Emergency Services Act, was introduced to establish a framework for municipalities in Pennsylvania to create real property emergency services funds. The bill mandates that each municipality establish such a fund to support the essential services provided by firefighters and emergency medical personnel. This funding can be allocated for buying and maintaining various types of equipment, such as firefighting apparatus, rescue vehicles, and communication tools essential for emergency response operations.

Sentiment

General sentiment around HB 1109 appears to be supportive, indicating a recognition of the necessity to bolster local emergency services. Many stakeholders regard the establishment of dedicated funds for these services as a positive step towards ensuring that municipalities can effectively respond to emergencies, thereby improving community safety. Nonetheless, discussions may have arisen around the implications of placing these funding requirements on municipalities, especially those facing financial difficulties.

Contention

While the bill has favorable receptions, there may be points of contention regarding the adequacy of resources available to municipalities to establish and maintain these funds. Concerns may include the potential for unequal access to resources, particularly among smaller or less affluent municipalities. Furthermore, debates might focus on whether the imposed fees for property transactions are sufficient to cover the costs of emergency services adequately, and how they may impact local real estate markets.