Committee approves $30 million fire company grant program, members urge clarity on funding source

The House Veterans Affairs & Emergency Preparedness Committee voted 14-12 to pass House Bill 2446, a proposal to create a $30 million annual Fire Company Transformational Grant Program to modernize equipment, facilities and operations statewide.

Sponsor Representative Haddock said the program would be administered by the state fire commissioner and distribute $30 million annually to strengthen staffing, replace aging equipment and support collaborative projects among career and volunteer companies. "It is time we think boldly and provide substantial grant opportunities to equip fire companies for the modern and evolving world," Haddock said.

Members described steep equipment cost increases. Representative O'Meara said fire truck prices have soared from roughly $300,000—300,000 in the early 2010s to as much as $1 million now, and she cited private equity consolidation among manufacturers as a driver that increases costs and delivery times. Representative Scott said the bill is a step forward but not a complete solution, and asked whether municipalities that levy a fire tax or that operate combined career/volunteer departments would be eligible; Haddock said career, combined and volunteer organizations could apply.

Chair Gillan praised the initiative but expressed reservations about the program's funding source and distribution metrics, warning that dedicating General Fund dollars could affect property tax relief and urging a larger long-term funding commitment. After discussion, the committee adopted the bill and will send it to the House floor for consideration following the committee vote.

The committee record shows a 14-12 roll call approving the bill; the transcript does not include a final fiscal detail or the committee's specific distribution formula.