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Senate committee hears testimony on allowing chiefs to qualify some candidates with felony records
Summary
Senate Bill 362 would let municipal fire chiefs use discretion to qualify applicants with certain felony convictions for firefighter roles. Proponents—many volunteer chiefs and individuals with prior convictions—argued the change would address volunteer shortages and offer second chances; committees discussed safeguards and local approval steps.
Senate Bill 362 would allow municipal fire chiefs to qualify applicants who have been convicted of certain misdemeanors or felonies, at the chief’s discretion, provided the nature of the offense and rehabilitation warrant it.
Sponsor Senator Tony Tezak said the bill recognizes that some individuals who made past mistakes can demonstrate rehabilitation and contribute to firefighting…
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