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Bill

HB 199

AN ACT TO AMEND TITLE 18 OF THE DELAWARE CODE RELATING TO DISTRIBUTIONS TO FIRE COMPANIES AND DEPARTMENTS.

153rd General Assembly (2025-2026) Introduced by Kerri Harris and 3 co-sponsors

HB 199 amends Delaware code governing fire department and company funding distributions, failed release vote suggests disputed resource allocation approach.

Motion to Release Failed
0
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Bill Summary · HB 199

Legislative bill overview

HB 199 proposes amendments to Delaware's Title 18 code governing how distributions are made to fire companies and departments. The bill addresses the allocation mechanisms for financial resources directed toward volunteer and professional fire services throughout the state. The specific amendments have not been detailed in available legislative records, though the failed release motion suggests contentious debate over the proposed changes.

Why is this important

Fire services are critical infrastructure for public safety and emergency response across Delaware communities. How the state distributes funding to these organizations directly affects their operational capacity, equipment quality, training programs, and response times. Changes to distribution formulas can significantly impact resource equity between urban, suburban, and rural fire departments.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding formula changes – Proposed amendments may shift how money is allocated among fire companies, potentially benefiting some jurisdictions while disadvantaging others
  • Volunteer vs. professional balance – Disputes may exist over whether distributions should favor volunteer-run departments versus fully professional services
  • Cost-sharing implications – Changes could alter what local municipalities or counties must contribute, affecting municipal budgets and taxpayer burdens

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

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