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Committee approves bill to define and recognize rescue squads for grant eligibility
Summary
Senate Bill 11-10 (as amended) creates a statutory definition and recognition process for rescue squads, requiring local elected-body approval for new squads and allowing exemptions for existing squads active before July 1, 2026. Sponsor said the change will prevent minimal groups from qualifying for grants.
The sponsor told members SB 11-10 "allows rescue squads to be recognized by the state fire marshal's office." He said the bill, brought by the Tennessee Association of Rescue Squads, will create a definition so that only valid and active rescue squads can apply for grant money and will require local elected-body approval for new squads while offering exemptions for existing squads active before 07/01/2026.
The committee adopted the amendment that made the bill and voted to move Senate Bill 11-10 to the calendar. The sponsor emphasized the measure does not give the fire marshal control over funding but rather a recognition process intended to protect grant funds from abuse.
