Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility Committee OKs Haddock measure to create new $30 million state grant program for fire companies

Committee OKs Haddock measure to create new $30 million state grant program for fire companies

Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus    May 1, 2026 | 9:30 AM

HARRISBURG, May 1 – Firefighting companies across Pennsylvania would be eligible to participate in a new $30 million grant program, under legislation approved this week by the House Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee, according to prime sponsor Rep. Jim Haddock.

“During the last decade or more, fire companies have been faced with reduced numbers of members and volunteers. Many of them also need big ticket items to update their equipment and facilities. My bill will help to resolve both of those issues and I am proud to work to implement this part of Gov. Josh Shapiro’s budget,” said Haddock, D-Luzerne/Lackawanna.

“Fire companies are on the front lines every day, and the commonwealth can do more to support the modern needs of the fire service. This program would complement the existing annual grants to fire companies, allowing them to undertake major, transformative investments. By investing an additional $30 million in firefighting, this bill would protect communities and the lives of those who serve them.”

House Bill 2446 would establish a Fire Company Transformational Grant Program. Eligible fire companies would include municipal, volunteer, and combination companies. Grants would support equipment, facilities, staffing, and recruitment efforts.

The program would encourage regionalization through higher funding caps. Through the $30 million program, single departments would qualify for grants between $100,000 and $1 million, while combined departments would be eligible for grants between $250,000 and $2.5 million.

The competitive grant program would be administered by the Office of the State Fire Commissioner.

The legislation moves to the full state House of Representatives for consideration.