Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB1179

Introduced
5/16/24  

Caption

In Commonwealth services, providing for opportunities for municipal firefighters and volunteer firefighters; establishing the Municipal and Volunteer Firefighter Training and Education Incentive Program and the Municipal and Volunteer Firefighter Training and Education Incentive Fund; imposing duties on the State Fire Advisory Board; imposing penalties; and making an appropriation.

Impact

This bill influences state law by mandating comprehensive training standards for firefighters and incentivizing further education through financial support. Firefighters must complete a firefighter level 1 certification to participate actively, thus enhancing the overall competency and safety standards in firefighting services across Pennsylvania. The creation of the training fund signifies a commitment to bolstering emergency services and ensuring they are staffed by qualified personnel, which can lead to improved public safety outcomes.

Summary

Senate Bill 1179 establishes the Municipal and Volunteer Firefighter Training and Education Incentive Program and the Municipal and Volunteer Firefighter Training and Education Incentive Fund within Pennsylvania. The bill aims to improve the training and education of both municipal and volunteer firefighters through a grant system. It allocates a total of $5,000,000 for the initial fiscal year to support training initiatives, with specific funding breakdowns to ensure both types of firefighters have access to necessary educational resources and certifications. The program is overseen by the State Fire Advisory Board, which is tasked with administering the funds and ensuring qualified expenditures are managed properly.

Sentiment

The response to SB 1179 has largely been positive among public safety advocates who stress the importance of well-trained firefighters. Supporters argue that adequate training is critical to effective firefighting and emergency response, reflecting a proactive approach to public safety. However, some skepticism exists regarding the administrative aspects of the fund and whether the allocation will meet the expected need, as well as concerns about the long-term sustainability of funding for continued training efforts.

Contention

Notably, there may be debates around the adequacy of funding and how well the funds are disbursed to effectively meet the training needs of diverse fire companies. The bill imposes penalties for violations surrounding hiring and training qualifications, which could lead to increased scrutiny and accountability within fire departments. As various municipalities implement these regulations, differing interpretations or compliance levels could create contention, especially in how training requirements are balanced with operational needs.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB05666

An Act Concerning Grants To Distressed Municipalities For The Training Of Volunteer Firefighters.

PA AB1631

Fire protection: volunteer firefighters: training.

PA SB186

Training completion awards for volunteer firefighters. (FE)

PA AB187

Training completion awards for volunteer firefighters. (FE)

PA SB002

Resources For Volunteer Firefighters

PA SB00551

An Act Concerning Volunteer Firefighters And Ambulance Service Volunteers Employed In The State.

PA LD1802

An Act to Include Certain Volunteer Firefighters in the Tax Credit for Employers of Individuals Who Are Volunteer Firefighters or Volunteer Municipal Emergency Medical Services Persons

PA H565

Study Volunteer Firefighter Incentives

PA A08755

Provides cancer screening and treatment for retired volunteer firefighters; defines retired volunteer firefighters; retroactively applies to retired volunteer firefighters.

PA HB2209

Exempting firefighters and volunteer firefighters from payment of income and real and personal property taxes

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