West Virginia 2025 Regular Session

West Virginia House Bill HB2986

Introduced
2/26/25  
Refer
2/26/25  

Caption

Reducing cost for Volunteer Fire and EMS supplies

Impact

If passed, HB 2986 would amend existing provisions of the West Virginia Code regarding the roles and powers of departmental secretaries. Specifically, it would grant the secretary of each department the authority to establish rules necessary for the central purchasing program. This represents a significant shift in how supplies are procured, potentially leading to enhanced efficiency and cost-effectiveness in obtaining necessary equipment and materials for emergency services. It highlights a proactive approach in support of local fire and emergency response units, which are vital to public safety.

Summary

House Bill 2986 seeks to introduce a central purchasing program in West Virginia that will streamline the procurement of supplies for volunteer fire fighters and emergency medical services (EMS) first responders. The bill aims to enable these services to acquire essential supplies at a reduced cost through bulk purchasing or discounted arrangements. By doing so, the legislation aspires to alleviate financial pressures on volunteer organizations that often rely on donations and limited funding, thereby ensuring they can better serve their communities during emergencies.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 2986 appears to be generally positive, especially among constituents and sectors directly impacted by volunteer fire services and EMS. Supporters view the bill as a critical step toward providing better resources for first responders while promoting fiscal responsibility through centralized procurement processes. However, there may exist concerns regarding the implementation and management of this new purchasing program and whether it can successfully meet the diverse needs of various volunteer organizations across the state.

Contention

While specific points of contention weren't mentioned explicitly in the available documents, the bill could face scrutiny regarding the bureaucracy of state purchasing processes and how swiftly they can respond to the needs of emergency services. Additionally, there may be debates around how effectively large-scale purchasing would cater to the specific requirements of smaller, community-based organizations, given the variability in their operational needs and budgets.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

WV HB5148

Reducing cost for Volunteer Fire and EMS supplies

WV HB4364

Relating to the limitations on the financial relationships with foreign entities that have values antithetical to those of the State of West Virginia

WV HB3353

Relating to the limitations on the financial relationships with foreign entities that have values antithetical to those of the State of West Virginia

WV HB2006

Relating to reorganizing the Department of Health and Human Resources

WV SB126

Reorganizing DHHR

WV HB5399

To modify the state auditing practices of the volunteer and part-volunteer fire departments

WV SB282

Relating to funding for volunteer fire departments and emergency medical services units

WV HB4296

Relating to the Waiving of Certain DMV Fees for Volunteer Firefighters

WV HB2880

Relating to the Waiving of Certain DMV Fees for Volunteer Firefighters

WV HB5203

Relating generally to annual funding from the WV State Budget for Volunteer Fire Department and EMS

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