HARRISBURG – Legislation proposed by State Senator Doug Mastriano (R-33) that would re-authorize the state’s Fire & EMS Grant Program received a unanimous vote today from the Senate Appropriations Committee.
Senate Bill 910 aims to prolong the program until June 30, 2024. The bill now goes to the full Senate for consideration.
“During my many visits to fire companies throughout the 33rd Senate District, I have seen first-hand how important this grant funding is to our first responders,” said Mastriano.
“These grants help fund training, as well as pay for much-needed equipment,” continued Mastriano. “We must always remember the bravery and dedication that it takes to keep our communities safe, as well as the cost associated with that effort.”
Without any action by the legislature, the program would expire this June.
The grant program is currently $30 million, with $25 million coming from the State Gaming Fund and $5 million from the Property Tax Relief Fund. Overall, the program provides up to $14,000 in grants to fire companies and nearly $7,000 in grants to EMS agencies for construction or renovation of a fire or ambulance company facility, purchase or repair of equipment, training and reduction of existing debt.
According to the State Fire Commissioner, Pennsylvania has nearly 2,450 fire companies, including about 2,300 all-volunteer departments. Pennsylvania is home to 12 percent of the nation’s 20,000 all-volunteer fire companies, more than any other state.
CONTACT: Scot Pitzer (717) 787-4651; spitzer@pasen.gov