Proposed Pa. bill could provide financial assistance to fire, EMS amid pandemic
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In an effort to aid fire and EMS companies in financial need during the coronavirus pandemic, state Rep. Pam Snyder, D-Carmichaels, proposed a bill that would provide crisis grants to eligible companies.
House Bill 2413 would establish a one-time program to provide grants to first responders in need. To qualify, fire and EMS companies would need approval from the Office of the State Fire Commissioner and the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency.
“Every single day — especially during this current time — our brave men and women across our state are putting their lives on the line to keep us safe and assist people in need,” Snyder said in a news release. “Because of the pandemic, they’re not able to conduct their normal fundraising activities to stay active, and this grant program will help them continue to answer the call.”
Grants would be funded through a one-time transfer of $30 million from the Volunteer Companies Loan Fund.
The bill is being considered by the state Senate.
“I believe this much needed assistance will further equip our volunteers to not only sustain their operations, but also continue their efforts to address the growing impact of covid-19,” Snyder wrote in the bill.