Governor Josh Shapiro has proposed a $30 million competitive grant program in his 2025–26 budget to support fire departments across Pennsylvania, with the industry voicing its support.
According to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, the grant funding would be available to help departments purchase equipment, recruit and retain personnel, and cover the cost of cancer screenings for firefighters.
The proposal also outlines a pilot program to encourage inter-municipal cooperation and improve service sharing between departments.
The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania reported that firefighters across the state welcomed the proposed investment.
Bethlehem Fire Department Chief Michael Reich said: “Governor Shapiro’s call for an additional $30 million in competitive grant funding for fire companies is absolutely vital.
“This funding will empower departments across the state to invest in equipment, recruit and retain our skilled firefighters, and, most importantly, fund much-needed cancer screenings.
“The reality is that firefighters face a significantly elevated risk of cancer, and the Governor’s proposed cancer screening funding is a critical step toward ensuring early detection and treatment for these brave first responders.”
Mt. Lebanon Fire Department Chief Kurt Christofel said: “As fire departments across Pennsylvania face new challenges — from rising costs to the physical and mental toll on first responders — investments like these proposed by Governor Shapiro are more important than ever.
“We appreciate his focus on not just equipment and training, but on the health, safety, and well-being of the firefighters who show up every day ready to serve.”
According to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, the proposed grant fund includes specific support for annual cancer screenings due to the occupational health risks faced by firefighters.
Erie Bureau of Fire Chief Leonard Trott said: “The Governor’s proposed $30 million grant fund is crucial for Erie and departments across the Commonwealth to keep pace with growing needs.
“Perhaps most critically, cancer screenings are essential to protecting the brave men and women who selflessly risk their lives each day.
“Early detection and treatment of occupational cancers — tragically common in the fire service — can save lives.
“We know this pain firsthand in Erie, with the recent loss of a young, active firefighter and the many retirees now battling cancer.”
Erie Fire Department Lieutenant Greg Wells added: “Governor Shapiro, thank you for taking the time, putting in the work, and prioritizing the needs of firefighters across Pennsylvania.
“Make no mistake — your efforts have already saved lives, and they will continue to do so.
“Act 121 of 2024, the post-traumatic stress injury bill you signed into law, gives firefighters critical resources to cope with the cumulative toll — the sights, the sounds, the emotions — that come with responding to tragedy. We are deeply grateful.”
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania officials and elected leaders also expressed their support for the funding proposals outlined by the Governor.
Allegheny County Executive Sara Innamorato said: “We’ve known for a long time that the number of firefighters is dwindling, and if we want to keep our communities safe, we need to ensure they have the tools, training, and support they need.
“That’s why I’m so pleased Governor Shapiro’s proposed budget includes $30 million in new funding for competitive grants for fire companies — and just as importantly, a pilot program to encourage collaboration and service sharing between departments.”
Pittsburgh Fire Fighters Local 1 President Ralph Sicuro said: “Governor Shapiro’s proposed grant program and pilot initiative will help ensure fire departments have the equipment, training, and personnel they need to meet that growing demand.
“But the greatest resource the fire service has — without a doubt — is the firefighters themselves.
“The Governor’s proposed cancer screening program will save lives through early detection and treatment.
“It won’t just improve survival rates — it will help return more firefighters to the communities they love to serve.”
Governor Josh Shapiro’s 2025–26 state budget proposes a $30 million competitive grant program.
The funding would assist Pennsylvania fire departments with equipment purchases and staffing.
The proposal includes a pilot initiative to support inter-municipal collaboration and shared services.
Cancer screening coverage for firefighters is also part of the proposed budget.
Bethlehem Fire Chief Michael Reich supported the plan for addressing cancer risks among firefighters.
Mt.
Lebanon Fire Chief Kurt Christofel welcomed the investment in equipment, health, and training.
Erie Bureau of Fire Chief Leonard Trott said the grant could support departments facing increased need.
Lieutenant Greg Wells of the Erie Fire Department highlighted the Governor’s prior support of mental health laws.
Pittsburgh Fire Fighters President Ralph Sicuro backed the cancer screening provision in the proposal.
Allegheny County Executive Sara Innamorato supported both the grant and inter-municipal cooperation elements.
The proposal is currently under consideration by Pennsylvania legislators.
