West Virginia Governor Jim Justice has signed House Bill 5128 into law, allocating $12 million in funding to support volunteer fire departments, emergency services, and other first responders across the state.
The bill, as reported by the Office of the Governor Jim Justice, aims to provide financial assistance to enhance the operations of these essential services.
During a ceremonial signing surrounded by members of the West Virginia State Firemen’s Association (WVSFA), Gov. Justice emphasized the importance of the work done by first responders in the state.
He expressed his gratitude, stating: “Our volunteer firefighters are the lifeblood of our communities, the people we turn to when emergencies strike.”
House Bill 5128 outlines the distribution of the $12 million fund into three primary segments.
The first segment, the Fire Protection Fund, will receive $6 million.
This amount will be evenly distributed among volunteer fire departments across West Virginia.
The purpose of this funding is to maintain and enhance the daily operations of these departments.
The second segment, the All County Fire Protection Fund, will receive $3 million.
This portion of the funding will be allocated to fire departments based on the population of each county.
The goal is to ensure that counties with larger populations receive proportionate support to meet their fire protection needs.
The third segment, known as the County Fire Protection Fund, will also receive $3 million.
This fund is designated for counties that have an excess levy or a dedicated fee for first responder services in place.
County Commissions will oversee the distribution of these funds to fire or emergency management services within their jurisdictions.
The signing of House Bill 5128 represents a significant boost in financial support for West Virginia’s volunteer fire departments and emergency services.
These funds are expected to alleviate some of the financial pressures faced by these organizations, allowing them to continue providing critical services to their communities.
Governor Justice’s remarks during the signing ceremony highlighted the essential role that these first responders play in West Virginia.
He acknowledged the sacrifices made by these volunteers, often leaving their families to respond to emergencies, and reaffirmed the state’s commitment to supporting their efforts.
The West Virginia State Firemen’s Association (WVSFA) has expressed appreciation for the passage of House Bill 5128.
The association, which represents the interests of volunteer fire departments across the state, has long advocated for increased financial support.
The $12 million allocation is seen as a step forward in ensuring that these departments can continue their vital work.
Gov. Justice’s comments during the signing ceremony reflected this sentiment: “This money is a drop in the bucket, but you’re absolutely worth every penny.
Thank you all for everything you do for West Virginia.”
West Virginia Governor Jim Justice has signed House Bill 5128, allocating $12 million to support volunteer fire departments, emergency services, and other first responders across the state.
The bill divides the funds into three parts: $6 million to the Fire Protection Fund, $3 million to the All County Fire Protection Fund, and $3 million to the County Fire Protection Fund.
The funds aim to maintain and enhance the operations of volunteer fire departments and emergency services, ensuring they can continue their vital work.
The West Virginia State Firemen’s Association has expressed its appreciation for the increased financial support.
