Bill > S1742

This bill makes several technical changes to the organization and operations of technical rescue services in Massachusetts. It establishes a new division of special operations within the Department of Fire Services that will include both hazardous materials and technical rescue emergency response teams. The State Fire Marshal is now empowered to divide the commonwealth into technical rescue regions and will be responsible for organizing and coordinating technical rescue services, training, equipment acquisition, and fund distribution. A new Technical Rescue Coordinating Council is created as an advisory body to the State Fire Marshal, consisting of nine members appointed by the governor, including representatives from fire chiefs, professional firefighters, and each technical rescue region. The bill clarifies operational protocols for technical rescue responses, specifying that the team leader has complete operational authority during an emergency until the imminent danger is mitigated. Additionally, the legislation provides for municipal reimbursement of technical rescue response costs and establishes an annual stipend of up to $5,000 for qualified team members, with qualification standards to be set by the State Fire Marshal. The bill also makes some administrative changes to fund management and contracting procedures related to technical rescue services.

Budget and Finance, Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S1742