The bill introduced by Senator Schaffer seeks to enhance support for volunteer fire departments and firefighters in Ohio through various amendments to the Revised Code. Key provisions include increasing the paid leave for state employees who are emergency medical service providers or volunteer firefighters from forty hours to a maximum of one hundred ninety-two hours per calendar year, which can be utilized for emergency services or training. Additionally, the bill introduces tax reductions for volunteer firefighters and their surviving spouses, clarifying definitions related to homesteads, and establishing a tax reduction framework for those who have served at least one year. It also mandates that applications for tax reductions based on disability must include documentation verifying the status of volunteer firefighters.

Furthermore, the bill outlines the responsibilities of the fire marshal, including the adoption of the state fire code and the establishment of a fire service training program. It introduces a grant program to fund volunteer fire department cadet and explorer programs and modifies the percentage of fees collected from foreign insurance companies selling fire insurance in Ohio, increasing it from twenty percent to twenty-five percent. The legislation also enhances protections for volunteer firefighters by prohibiting employer termination for absences related to volunteer duties and introduces a nonrefundable tax credit for employers providing volunteer firefighting leave benefits. Overall, the bill aims to strengthen support for volunteer emergency responders while ensuring their rights are protected and enhancing training and certification processes.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 124.1310, 323.151, 323.152, 323.153, 3737.22, 3901.86, 4113.41, 4765.01, 4765.55, 5747.08, 5747.98