Fire companies across Pennsylvania are struggling to keep up with the demands of providing reliable firefighting services. Population and cultural shifts are forcing collaborative efforts across fire companies without infrastructure to support these partnerships. Many face challenges maintaining equipment and facilities, sustaining adequate staffing, and attracting new volunteers.
 
It is time to think boldly about providing substantial grant opportunities to equip fire companies for the modern and evolving world. In line with the Governor’s leadership on this issue, I plan to introduce a proposal to establish the Fire Company Transformational Grant Program administered through the Office of the State Fire Commissioner, which would distribute $30 million annually through a grant program that recognizes the need for larger, longer-term investment in firefighting resources.
 
The goal of this effort is to strengthen the long-term capacity of fire companies across the Commonwealth. The program would provide funding to support major fire service needs, including equipment, facilities, personnel support, and collaborative projects between companies. By supporting modernization and operational improvements, the program would help ensure communities continue to receive reliable firefighting services.
 
Providing fire companies with the tools and support necessary to serve their communities is a shared priority across the Commonwealth. I invite you to join me in co-sponsoring this measure to establish the Fire Company Transformational Grant Program and support the future of Pennsylvania’s fire service.