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Senate Co-Sponsorship Memoranda
Senate of Pennsylvania
Session of 2017 - 2018
Regular Session
MEMORANDUM
| Posted: | June 15, 2017 09:47 AM |
|---|---|
| From: | Senator Kim L. Ward |
| To: | All Senate members |
| Subject: | Fire Company and EMS Grants for Rescue Animals and Body Armor |
| I am introducing legislation to allow fire and EMS companies to seek funding under The Fire Company, Emergency Medical Service Grant Program for the purchase of body armor and rescue animals. Currently, grants awarded through the program may be used for the purchase or repair of firefighting, ambulance or rescue equipment. While this even includes the purchase of fuel for company vehicles, it does not include the purchase of bullet proof vests or animals who assist in rescues or accelerant detection. My legislation will expand the program to make eligible the use of funds towards any protective gear for firefighters or EMS workers that is worn on the body and meant to provide protection from weapons. The bill will also enable program grants to be spent on the purchase of any animal to be used in rescue or recovery service or in the detection of accelerant. This will include any necessary training costs of both the animal and the handler. Purebred dogs such as the ones used in fire and rescue can be very costly, as are bullet proof vests. However, both can save lives and prevent loss and they are a worthwhile investment for our emergency responders and our communities. If you have any questions in regards to this legislation, please feel free to contact me or my legislative director, Geri Sarfert, at 717-787-6063. |
Introduced as SB836