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Bill

HB 1156

Concerning volunteer firefighter participation in the state deferred compensation program.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Natasha Hill and 2 co-sponsors

HB 1156 expands Washington's state deferred compensation retirement savings program to include volunteer firefighters, providing them tax-advantaged retirement benefits previously available only to full-time public employees.

Effective date 7/27/2025.
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Bill Summary · HB 1156

Legislative bill overview

HB 1156 allows volunteer firefighters in Washington State to participate in the state's deferred compensation program, a tax-advantaged retirement savings plan previously limited to full-time public employees. The bill expands eligibility to include volunteer firefighters, enabling them to set aside pre-tax earnings for retirement through the state system.

Why is this important

Volunteer firefighters often lack access to employer-sponsored retirement benefits despite performing essential public safety services. This expansion addresses a significant gap in retirement security for volunteers, potentially improving recruitment and retention in fire departments that rely on volunteer labor. It also brings Washington into alignment with how other states treat volunteer emergency responders' retirement benefits.

Potential points of contention

  • Program administration complexity: Extending the deferred compensation program to volunteers requires new operational procedures for eligibility verification, contribution management, and account administration across multiple volunteer fire departments
  • Funding mechanisms: Unclear whether volunteers must make full contributions themselves or if municipalities/districts contribute on their behalf, creating potential budget impacts for local fire departments
  • Participation barriers: Volunteer firefighters may have irregular income streams or limited awareness of the program, potentially limiting actual enrollment despite expanded eligibility

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

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