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Bill

HB 394

Fire Programs Fund; increases assessment.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Alex Askew

Bill proposes raising Fire Programs Fund assessment in Virginia to increase firefighting and fire prevention service funding statewide.

Subcommittee recommends laying on the table (7-Y 0-N)
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Bill Summary · HB 394

Legislative bill overview

HB 394 proposes to increase the assessment funding mechanism for Virginia's Fire Programs Fund, which supports firefighting and fire prevention services across the state. The bill was prefiled in January 2026 and referred to the House Appropriations Committee, though a subcommittee has recommended tabling it.

Why is this important

Fire services funding directly affects emergency response capabilities, equipment availability, and training standards in communities throughout Virginia. Changes to assessment structures can impact both local government budgets and the overall adequacy of fire protection infrastructure statewide.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost implications: Increased assessments will raise expenses for jurisdictions or entities currently funding fire programs, requiring budget reallocation or tax increases
  • Distribution equity: Questions about whether the increased assessment burden falls uniformly across regions or disproportionately affects certain areas
  • Fiscal necessity: Debate over whether the current Fire Programs Fund is genuinely underfunded or whether the increase represents overreach beyond demonstrated needs

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

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