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House Co-Sponsorship Memoranda
House of Representatives
Session of 2013 - 2014
Regular Session
MEMORANDUM
| Posted: | June 26, 2014 03:55 PM |
|---|---|
| From: | Representative Patrick J. Harkins |
| To: | All House members |
| Subject: | Statewide Referendum Relating to Full-Time Firefighting Department Loans |
| MEMORANDUM In the very near future, I plan to introduce legislation that would direct the Secretary of the Commonwealth to place a binding referendum on the ballot at the next election to determine if it is the will of the electorate of this Commonwealth to allow up to $10 million previously authorized for volunteer fire and volunteer emergency services to be provided as loans to full-time fire departments. Specifically, the purpose of this proposal is to help establish or modernize facilities to house existing or purchase new firefighting apparatus equipment, rescue vehicles, protective and communications equipment, and other equipment necessary for the proper performance of the departments’ duties. My proposal helps reverse the growing trend of full-time fire departments being asked to do more with less. Our fire departments want to serve their communities by using the best industry practices and provide better and safer environments for all residents. However, the decrease in state and local funding, coupled with deep budget cuts, has led to decreased staffing levels. This proposal would help provide full-time fire departments with additional funding opportunities. As legislators, I believe that there is no better way to fully understand and address the issues that are important to all Pennsylvania citizens, than to provide every eligible voter with a voice. I hope you will join with me in co-sponsoring this important legislation. |