FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 22, 2004
Contact:  Erin K. Kelly
(717) 846-2828
ekelly@pasen.gov
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Appointments to Select Committee on Fire and Emergency Services Complete

Senate Committee Also Reports Bill Increasing Bond Authorization Amount for Volunteer Assistance Loans

HARRISBURG – A committee to improve the delivery of fire and emergency services in the Commonwealth, created through a resolution sponsored by Sen. Mike Waugh (R-York) and Sen. Sean Logan (D-Monroeville), received its final appointments this week, made by the Senate President Pro-Tempore, Sen. Robert Jubelirer (R- Altoona).

"I am pleased that we have finally reached this stage with the committee. This blue ribbon panel comprised of fire and emergency service providers from across the state will assist our efforts in Harrisburg to better serve these dedicated organizations statewide," said Waugh, co-chair of the Senate Firefighters and Emergency Services Caucus in the Senate.

The 25-member committee will be charged with developing legislation to establish an institutionalized, "needs-based" grants program for volunteer fire and emergency services and to provide adequate funds in the Volunteer Loan Assistance Program. They will also be responsible for developing legislation for a municipal firefighter education and training program, along with other issues relating to the long-term challenges of the fire and emergency services, such as recruitment and retention, and adequate protective gear and equipment.

"These organizations are serving and protecting their neighbors many times with limited resources. Today's challenges require more specialized equipment and training; it is my hope that this select committee will be able to help them tackle these challenges that they face everyday while doing their jobs," said Waugh.

House Bill 900, which will amend the Volunteer Loan Assistance Act to reflect the 2002 approval by voters authorizing $100 million for support of volunteer fire and emergency services companies, also saw action this week.

The Senate State Government Committee reported the legislation with multiple technical changes, which do not alter the original intent of HB 900 but rather update antiquated sections of the Act. The legislation has been considered twice on the Senate floor and is now before the Senate Appropriations Committee.