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HB 2170

Allowing volunteer fire departments to use fire protection funding for certain purchases

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Joe Funkhouser and 2 co-sponsors

House Bill 2170 allows West Virginia volunteer fire departments to use Fire Protection Fund for health insurance, training, and fiscal reporting, enhancing their operational support.

To Government Organization
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Bill Summary · HB 2170

Summary of House Bill 2170

Bill Information

  • Bill Number: HB 2170
  • Title: Allowing volunteer fire departments to use fire protection funding for certain purchases
  • Status: To Government Organization
  • Introduced: January 29, 2025
  • Classification: Bill
  • Subject: Boards and Commissions, Professions and Occupations, Public Safety

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 2170 aims to amend the Code of West Virginia to allow volunteer fire departments to utilize funds from the Fire Protection Fund for specific expenses. This legislation is designed to enhance the operational capabilities of volunteer fire departments by broadening the permissible uses of allocated funds, particularly in areas critical to their functionality and compliance with state requirements.

Key Provisions

The bill introduces several significant changes regarding the use of Fire Protection Fund monies:

  1. Authorized Expenditures:

    • Volunteer fire departments may now use funds for:
      • Health Insurance Premiums: Covering individual members.
      • Worker’s Compensation Supplemental Wage Replacement Coverage: Providing additional financial support for injured members.
      • Implementation Costs for Fiscal Reporting System: Expenses related to transitioning to the State Auditor's West Virginia Checkbook fiscal reporting system, including technology and professional services.
      • Increased Spending on Educational and Training Supplies: The annual limit for these expenditures is raised from $500 to $5,000.

  2. Financial Management:

    • Funds received must be deposited into a dedicated bank account and cannot be commingled with other sources.
    • Departments must retain financial records for five years to ensure compliance with state regulations.

  3. Penalties for Unauthorized Use:

    • Any funds misused for unauthorized purposes will be deducted from future distributions to the department.

Impact

This bill primarily affects volunteer fire departments across West Virginia by:
- Enhancing Financial Flexibility: Allowing for a broader range of expenditures will enable departments to better support their personnel and operational needs.
- Improving Compliance: By facilitating the transition to the West Virginia Checkbook fiscal reporting system, the bill aims to ensure that volunteer fire departments meet state requirements for transparency and accountability.
- Supporting Training and Education: The increase in allowable spending for educational materials will help improve the skills and preparedness of volunteer firefighters.

Procedural Timeline

  • Introduced: January 29, 2025
  • First Reading: February 4, 2025
  • Referred to Rules Committee: February 4, 2025
  • Passed House: February 28, 2025
  • Communicated to Senate: February 28, 2025
  • Currently in Government Organization Committee: Status pending further action.

This summary provides an overview of House Bill 2170, highlighting its purpose, key provisions, and potential impact on volunteer fire departments in West Virginia.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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