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Committee clears bill requiring validated firefighter training for supplemental-pay eligibility
Summary
A Senate committee voted favorably on a bill that requires pro-board or IFSAC-approved training, compliance with NFPA standards, and validation by the Louisiana Fire and Emergency Training Academy for firefighters to qualify for supplemental pay.
Representative Duran presented a measure that would require firefighters seeking supplemental pay to complete training from a Pro Board–accredited agency or an International Fire Service Accreditation Congress (IFSAC)–approved entity, to meet National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards, and to have certification validated by the Louisiana Fire and Emergency Training Academy (FEDA).
Chad Robertson of the Louisiana Fire Chiefs explained that national standards had changed and cited updates such as the addition of a “1010” designation at the national level; the bill aims to ensure that equivalent out-of-state certifications and newer national codes qualify for state supplemental pay. Robertson said FEDA will serve as a state vetting authority because the supplemental-pay board needs a single clearinghouse to verify credentials.
Representative Duran and supporters told the committee the change will prevent falsified certifications from causing improper payments. “In the last year or so, we've gotten about 15 fake certifications,” a witness reported; the bill would require FEDA to vet certifications and provide the supplemental-pay board with validation.
Senators expressed support and said the measure will clarify the supplemental-pay approval process for applicants with out-of-state or alternative national certifications. The committee reported the bill favorable; witnesses from firefighter organizations registered in support and did not request to speak.
