HARRISBURG, PA — Legislation introduced by state Rep. Chris Pielli to increase funding opportunities for fire and emergency medical services (EMS) has been approved by the Pennsylvania House Local Government Committee.
House Bill 393 proposes expanding state law to allow all second-class townships to raise their annual tax limits through ordinances, creating additional funding avenues for fire and EMS services. Under current law, only a select group of second-class townships can implement these taxes.
“Fire companies and emergency services exist to serve and protect all Pennsylvania residents, and they need proper funding to carry out their responsibilities,” said Pielli.
He emphasized the impact of funding challenges on staffing and emergency response, adding, “Funding struggles can result in staffing shortages and increased response times. This legislation is a simple but important step in increasing funding opportunities for our first responders. With this funding, our first responders can increase staffing and upgrade equipment. This option should also be extended to all townships of the second class.”
The bill now moves to the full Pennsylvania House for consideration.
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