(Statehouse) – Legislation from State Rep. Randy Frye (R-Greensburg) will help alleviate some funding concerns for Indiana volunteer fire departments.
More than 70% of fire departments in the state are fully staffed by volunteers.
“That’s because funding for local fire service has struggled to keep up with the demand and rising costs, which creates safety concerns for communities as volunteer departments consider closing their doors,” Frye said. “I believe it’s time to extinguish funding concerns for Indiana’s volunteer fire service and that’s why I crafted legislation this year to help.
“Currently, volunteer fire departments are primarily funded by township governments through property and income taxes, but those funds just don’t cover their actual needs. That’s why local departments often host various fundraisers to pay for upgraded equipment and other needed items,” he added. “Due to tight funding constraints, volunteer firefighters are not only wanted but critically needed as costs continue to rise.”
Frye’s legislation was ultimately included in House Enrolled Act 1454; that measure was signed into law by Gov. Eric Holcomb last week and allows counties to adopt a resolution for one or more township fire departments, volunteer fire departments, or fire districts and territories to receive up to .05 % of their public safety local income tax.
“This is a great local option for a sustainable funding stream for fire service and I strongly believe our local counties should jump on this opportunity,” Frye said. “While this measure won’t solve our longstanding funding issues, it’s certainly a strong step in the right direction and I’m committed to finding other solutions.
Frye added during the legislative session, he worked with the Indiana Department of Homeland Security to support funding and training resources for the state’s fire service.
“I authored legislation, which was included in the budget, to create a Regional Public Safety Training Fund to provide much-needed support to update firefighter training facilities, provide scholarships for students pursuing a public safety field, equipment upgrades, and training programs,” said Frye.
“As a former firefighter, I have tremendous respect for the men and women who serve as they sacrifice time away from their families, and often risk their health and even their lives to help others,” he added. “As chair of the House Veterans Affairs and Public Safety Committee, I’m committed to serving all our heroes in uniform like our local law enforcement, firefighters, public safety personnel, and veterans.”
