Pennsylvania House Bill HB1758

Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 7/23/25
• Refer: 7/23/25

Caption

In volunteer firefighters, repealing provisions relating to employment sanctions; and providing for volunteer emergency responders employer tax credit.

Impact

The introduction of HB 1758 could substantially alter the landscape of volunteer firefighting and emergency response in the state. By removing penalties associated with employment sanctions, the bill seeks to create a more supportive environment for potential recruits. Supporters believe this will lead to an increase in the volunteer workforce, which is essential for effective emergency response. Moreover, the tax credits provided to employers could encourage more businesses to allow flexibility in employee work schedules to facilitate their participation in volunteer services, thereby promoting a culture of community service and augmenting local emergency capabilities.

Summary

House Bill 1758 seeks to make significant changes regarding volunteer firefighters by repealing certain provisions that impose employment sanctions. The primary aim of the bill is to encourage individuals to participate in volunteer emergency response roles by alleviating concerns about potential workplace repercussions. Additionally, the bill introduces a tax credit for employers of volunteer emergency responders, thereby incentivizing businesses to support their employees' involvement in such critical community service roles. This could lead to enhanced support for local emergency services, which rely heavily on volunteer personnel.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 1758 appears to be positive among supporters, who view it as a progressive step in supporting volunteerism and enhancing emergency response systems. Legislators advocating for the bill argue that by easing the burden on employees who wish to volunteer, they are fostering a sense of civic responsibility and communal support. Critics, however, may express concerns regarding the potential for misuse of the employment policies or the financial implications of employee tax credits, although such sentiments seem less prominent in the discussions currently surrounding the bill.

Contention

One notable point of contention involves the nature of the tax credit and its implications for state revenue and employer responsibilities. While proponents argue that the benefits of having a robust volunteer workforce will outweigh the costs of the tax incentive, opponents might question the long-term fiscal sustainability of such measures. The debates around HB 1758 highlight differing perspectives on how best to balance support for volunteer emergency responders with the need to maintain a fair tax burden on the state and local governments.