Bill > HB489

This bill modifies the Virginia Fire Programs Fund by expanding the potential uses of funds allocated to local fire departments. Currently funded through a 1% assessment on insurance companies, the Fund can now be used by localities for additional purposes including constructing or improving fire station facilities, providing mental health resources for firefighters, and hiring additional fire personnel or funding recruitment and retention programs. The bill also explicitly prohibits using these funds for investments, operating expenses, debt repayment, taxes, or fees (except in specific circumstances). The changes maintain the existing requirement that these funds cannot replace existing local fire service funding and must be used to enhance fire and emergency services. The bill continues the Fund's core mission of supporting local fire departments by providing resources for training, equipment, personnel, and infrastructure, while adding mental health and staffing support as eligible uses. Localities receiving these funds must still submit annual reports detailing how the money was spent to remain eligible for future allocations, ensuring accountability and proper use of the funds.

Budget and Finance, Business and Industry, Justice

https://lis.virginia.gov/cgi-bin/legp604.exe?251+sum+HB489