Bill > HB06624

This bill proposes multiple comprehensive measures to address firefighter recruitment and retention in Connecticut. The legislation aims to increase support for both volunteer and paid firefighters through several key initiatives: establishing a Fire Service Youth Program Advisory Board to develop high school public safety curricula and create technical high school career tracks; appointing firefighter recruitment coordinators in each emergency preparedness region; developing statewide training facilities for candidate physical ability tests; expanding state fire school training capacity; creating a mortgage assistance program specifically for fire department members; providing tuition waivers at state public higher education institutions for firefighters with at least two years of service and their dependent children; establishing a volunteer firefighter length of service award program; and directing the Commission on Fire Prevention and Control to study firefighter training levels, certifications, and benefits. Additionally, the bill requires the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection to develop an advertising campaign designed to attract more applicants, with a specific focus on increasing female participation in firefighting roles. The comprehensive nature of these provisions demonstrates a multifaceted approach to addressing the challenges of firefighter recruitment and retention by providing financial incentives, educational opportunities, professional development pathways, and targeted outreach efforts.

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https://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&bill_num=HB06624&which_year=2025