Regola:  Fire & EMS Grant Legislation Signed Into Law

bill reauthorizes $25 million grant program for 5 years

Today, Governor Ed Rendell signed into law legislation reauthorizing the $25 million Volunteer Fire and EMS Grant Program, according to Senator Bob Regola (R-39), the prime sponsor of the Senate version of the legislation.

“I would like to thank the Governor for approving this legislation,” said Sen. Regola.”  It has been a top priority of mine to get this grant funding squared away as quickly as possible so that our fire and EMS departments can purchase needed equipment, facility upgrades, or training.  First responders do so much for us.  It is important that we do our part for them.”

Since 2000, $25 million has been regularly appropriate to the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency to provide grants to volunteer fire and EMS departments.  However, it has lapsed in the past.  House Bill 906, now Act 10 of 2007, reauthorizes the program for the next five years.  The Act goes into effect immediately.

“The five-year reauthorization period is very important as it provides some sense of certainty regarding the program over the next several years,” said Sen. Regola.  “Rather waiting on the legislature to act each year on this program, our first responders will be better able to plan and budget for their needs.”
 

VIDEO OF BILL SIGNING OF HOUSE BILL 906

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Contact:  Nate Silcox    (717) 787-6063

CAPTION:  Senator Regola watches as the Governor signs House Bill 906 into law. 
 Joining Sen. Regola were Senator Lisa Baker (R-20) and members of the
 House Fire and Emergency Services Caucus.