Share:
House Co-Sponsorship Memoranda
House of Representatives
Session of 2021 - 2022
Regular Session
MEMORANDUM
| Posted: | May 10, 2022 12:36 PM |
|---|---|
| From: | Representative Jim Rigby |
| To: | All House members |
| Subject: | Enhancing Funding Capabilities for Emergency Services |
| Pennsylvania’s emergency services are in a dire state of crisis. The SR 6 report of 2018, and the “EMS In Crisis” public hearing of 2022 conveyed the woeful lack of funding, personnel and other resources necessary for emergency services to fulfill their public health duty. A primary recommendation, supported by the Pennsylvania State Association of Township Supervisors (PSATS), is to increase the amount of ambulance tax second class townships may levy. Therefore, I plan on introducing legislation in the near future which would increase the amount of ambulance tax second class townships may levy by amending the Second Class Township Code. My legislation would increase the permissible leverage of property taxes from .5 mills to 1.5 mills for the purpose of emergency services. It will also enhance how these funds may be used in accordance with current fire company provisions under the Second Class Township Code. Funding is a primary issue for struggling emergency services across the Commonwealth, thus it is imperative that new revenue options are afforded to municipalities to pay for their crucial services. I urge you to join me in sponsoring this critical piece of legislation for the sustainment of our emergency services, and for the health and safety of all Pennsylvanians. |
Introduced as HB2601