Bill > HF1002

This bill establishes a length of service award program for volunteer firefighters, emergency medical care providers, and reserve peace officers in Iowa. Municipalities can create programs that provide tax-deferred financial awards to volunteers who serve their communities, with a "volunteer" defined as someone earning less than $5,000 per year from the municipality. The bill creates a state grant fund managed by the economic development authority to help support these programs, with different funding match rates depending on the municipality's annual budget. For smaller departments (with budgets under $100,000), the state will provide a three-to-one match up to $500 per participant, while larger departments can receive a dollar-for-dollar match up to $500 per participant. The bill appropriates $1,500,000 from the sports wagering receipts fund to establish this grant program, with an effective date of July 1, 2025. Municipalities will need to adopt specific guidelines for their programs in consultation with their fire and police department leadership, including eligibility requirements, vesting rules, and distribution guidelines. The goal is to provide financial recognition and support for volunteers who provide critical emergency services in their local communities.

Budget and Finance

Appropriations (H)

https://www.legis.iowa.gov/legislation/BillBook?ga=91&ba=HF1002