This bill establishes the Resident Firefighter Grant Program within the Division of Fire Safety in the Department of Community Affairs (DCA) to provide financial support to fire districts for the creation and expansion of resident firefighter programs. A resident firefighter is defined as a firefighter who performs duties at the fire station, such as attending training and responding to emergencies, in exchange for free living accommodations. The program aims to enhance the resources available to resident firefighters, including incentives, amenities, and the construction of dormitories equipped with kitchen facilities.

The bill mandates that the Director of the Division of Fire Safety administer the program, including the development of grant application procedures and criteria for awarding grants. It emphasizes equitable distribution of funds across the northern, central, and southern regions of New Jersey. Additionally, the DCA is required to request a minimum of $5 million annually as part of its budget proposal to fund these grants and to seek other funding sources to support the program.