Bill > SB2338

This bill establishes a new volunteer firefighter vehicle grant program to help volunteer fire departments meet local funding requirements for purchasing vehicles, with the Commissioner of Commerce and Insurance determining the state's contribution, though it won't cover the entire local match. While the Commissioner will aim to distribute funds proportionally across the state's three grand divisions (East, Middle, and West Tennessee), this bill removes the previous requirement for an equal division. Importantly, the bill also removes a restriction that prevented grant funds from being used to buy fire trucks or other vehicles, allowing these essential purchases. Any unspent funds from this program will remain available for future years for this vehicle grant program or another existing volunteer firefighter equipment and training grant program, rather than returning to the state's general fund. The bill also outlines an initial appropriation of one million dollars for fiscal year 2026-2027 and requires the Commissioner to create rules for awarding these grants.