HB 357 - SB 1110
FISCAL NOTE
Fiscal Review Committee
Tennessee General Assembly
February 13, 2025
Fiscal Analyst: Laura Moore | Email: laura.moore@capitol.tn.gov | Phone: 615-741-2564
HB 357 - SB 1110
SUMMARY OF BILL: Creates the Rescue Squad Recognition Act (Act). Prohibits a
municipality, county, political subdivision, or nonprofit organization from operating a rescue squad
unless the rescue squad has been duly authorized to perform rescue services by the State Fire
Marshal's Office (SFMO). Requires the SFMO in consultation with the Tennessee Association of
Rescue Squads (TARS) and other interested industry groups, to promulgate rules relative to the
standards and qualifications for becoming and remaining a rescue squad.
Requires a rescue squad to apply for recognition with the SFMO through a prescribed SFMO form
accompanied by a fee of no more than $50. Requires the SFMO to then issue a certificate of
recognition to an eligible rescue squad that is valid for three years. Requires a rescue squad to renew
its certificate every three years with an additional fee of no more than $50.
Authorizes a current rescue squad whose certificate of charter with the Secretary of State is active
before July 1, 2025, to apply to the SFMO for a certificate of recognition to operate under an
exemption if the SOS rescue squad does not meet the qualifications under the Act. Requires a new
rescue squad to have the approval of the local government for which the rescue squad will operate.
Creates rules and regulations regarding nonrenewal, revocation, or suspension of a certificate of
recognition and creates reporting requirements. Establishes that any violation of the Act is a Class C
misdemeanor punishable only by a fine of $50.
FISCAL IMPACT:
STATE GOVERNMENT
REVENUE State Fire Marshal’s Office
FY25-26 & Every Three Years Thereafter $5,800
Assumptions:
• According to the TARS website, the organization currently has 115 rescue squads as
members.
• The proposed legislation requires all rescue squads to have a recognition certificate to
operate; therefore, it is assumed that each of these 115 rescue squads will apply for the
certificate in FY25-26.
• An estimated increase in state revenue of $5,750 ($50 fee x 115 rescue squads) in FY25-26
and every three years thereafter.
• According to the Department of Commerce and Insurance, any administrative cost as a
result of the legislation can be handled within existing resources.
HB 357 - SB 1110 2
• There is not estimated to be a significant increase in local revenue related to criminal fines
for violations of the Act.
CERTIFICATION:
The information contained herein is true and correct to the best of my knowledge.
Bojan Savic, Executive Director