Louisiana bill proposes supplemental pay for Lakefront Airport firefighters to retain staff

House Bill 348, aimed at providing supplemental pay for firefighters at the Lakefront Management Authority, took center stage during a recent Louisiana House Appropriations meeting. The bill seeks to address a critical staffing issue, as trained fire personnel are leaving for better-paying positions in surrounding departments, jeopardizing safety at the airport.

Bruce Martin, director of aviation for Lakefront Airport, emphasized the importance of having a well-trained fire department on-site, particularly given the airport's role in handling significant air traffic, including during major events like the Super Bowl. "Without a fire department here, it's very hard for us to get planes to land," Martin stated, highlighting the necessity of specialized training for aircraft rescue firefighting.

The proposed legislation would benefit a small team of nine firefighters, who currently lack the supplemental pay that their counterparts in other departments receive. Representative Marceau voiced support for the bill, noting that retaining trained firefighters is crucial for maintaining safety standards at the airport. "If they're fighting fires, they should be paid the same supplemental pay as anyone else fighting fires," she remarked.

However, the bill's passage is not without contention. Some committee members raised concerns about equity, questioning why this group of firefighters should receive additional compensation over others in the state, such as EMS personnel, who also face hazardous conditions. Representative Bagley pointed out the potential for discontent among other emergency service workers who may feel overlooked.

Despite these concerns, supporters argue that the unique challenges faced by Lakefront firefighters warrant the proposed pay increase. The bill is seen as a necessary step to ensure that the airport remains safe and operational, particularly as it serves a diverse range of aircraft, including private planes and student training flights.

As discussions continue, the fate of House Bill 348 remains uncertain, but its implications for airport safety and firefighter retention are clear. The committee is expected to deliberate further on the bill, weighing the need for specialized fire protection against broader concerns of fairness among emergency service providers in Louisiana.