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Bill

A 3576

Relates to using a portion of the public safety communications surcharge to support volunteer fire department initiatives

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Brian Miller

Bill A 3576 allocates funds from the public safety communications surcharge to support volunteer fire departments, enhancing community safety and emergency response.

HELD FOR CONSIDERATION IN WAYS AND MEANS
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Bill Summary · A 3576

Summary of Bill A 3576

Bill Number: A 3576
Title: Relates to using a portion of the public safety communications surcharge to support volunteer fire department initiatives
Status: HELD FOR CONSIDERATION IN WAYS AND MEANS
Introduced: January 28, 2025
Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill A 3576 aims to allocate a portion of the revenue generated from the public safety communications surcharge specifically to support initiatives undertaken by volunteer fire departments. The intent of this legislation is to enhance the operational capabilities of these departments, which play a critical role in community safety and emergency response.

Key Provisions

  • Revenue Allocation: The bill proposes that a designated percentage of the funds collected from the public safety communications surcharge be redirected to volunteer fire departments. This funding is intended to assist with various operational needs, including equipment purchases, training programs, and community outreach initiatives.

  • Support for Volunteer Fire Departments: The legislation recognizes the vital contributions of volunteer fire departments in local communities and seeks to provide them with the necessary financial resources to maintain and improve their services.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Volunteer Fire Departments: The primary beneficiaries of this bill would be volunteer fire departments across the state, which often rely on limited funding sources to operate effectively.

  • Local Communities: Communities served by volunteer fire departments would benefit from improved emergency response capabilities and enhanced public safety measures.

Procedural Aspects

  • Legislative Actions:
    • The bill was introduced on January 28, 2025, and subsequently referred to the Ways and Means Committee.
    • As of June 6, 2025, the bill is held for consideration in the Ways and Means Committee, indicating that further discussion or amendments may be necessary before it can proceed to a vote.

Related Bills

This bill is part of a broader legislative context, with several related bills from prior sessions, including:
- A 8486
- A 4736
- A 4560
- S 1825 (companion bill)

These related bills may address similar issues or provide additional context for the funding and support of fire departments.

Conclusion

Bill A 3576 represents a significant effort to bolster the resources available to volunteer fire departments through the strategic use of public safety communications surcharge funds. By enhancing financial support for these essential services, the bill aims to improve community safety and emergency response capabilities. The ongoing legislative process will determine the final outcome and potential implementation of this initiative.

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

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