Sen. Robbins: Committee OKs Extension of Fire & EMS Grants

House Bill 906 would reauthorize the program for 5 years

The Senate Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee today approved House Bill 906, legislation that would reauthorize a popular fire/EMS grant program for five years, according to Senator Bob Robbins, committee Vice Chairman.

The bill is now headed to the Senate Appropriations Committee for consideration.

Since 2000, the General Assembly has regularly appropriated $25 million to the PA Emergency Management Agency to provide grants to volunteer fire and EMS departments. However, this program is not guaranteed and has lapsed in the past.

The reauthorization would allow for funding on a steady basis, providing a safety net for local volunteer fire departments and ambulance corps, Senator Robbins said.

"I am very pleased that we moved this important bill," Senator Robbins said. "Our volunteer firefighters and ambulance corps play important roles in many communities across the 50th Senatorial District and across the state. Unfortunately, the truth is many of these companies are finding it difficult to cover the rising costs of equipment and training. These grants provide much-needed assistance to our first responders."

HB 906 also provides for a one-time double grant program for 2007, using $25 million on hand in gaming revenue and an additional $25 million to be released on or after July 1 as part of Pennsylvania's state budget for Fiscal Year 2007-08.

Contact:

Michael Hengst
(717) 787-1322