Bill > SB2604

This bill establishes two programs to support volunteer firefighters in Mississippi: the Mississippi Volunteer Firefighter Tuition Grant and the Volunteer Fire Department Equipment Award Program. The tuition grant, administered by the Mississippi Office of Financial Aid, will provide up to $500 per term for eligible volunteer firefighters enrolled in community or junior colleges, covering costs like tuition, books, and fees, with renewal dependent on academic progress and a minimum 2.5 GPA. A "volunteer firefighter" is defined as an active, registered volunteer who is not a full-time career firefighter, though exceptions exist for those who also volunteer when not on duty. The equipment award program, managed by the Mississippi Insurance Department (MID), will provide funds to volunteer fire departments for the purchase and maintenance of essential equipment, with departments needing to apply and account for how funds are used for renewal. Both programs include penalties for dishonest conduct, such as fines and repayment of wrongfully obtained funds, and will take effect on July 1, 2026.

Education

https://billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/2026/pdf/history/SB/SB2604.xml