Public Safety Bill Featuring a Component of Rep. Lanoue’s Volunteer Firefighter Stipends Proposal Passes Unanimously Through Committee
H.B. No. 7055 Tax Exempts the First $2,000 in Stipends for Volunteer Firefighters and EMS Personnel
HARTFORD- On Tuesday, the Public Safety and Security Committee unanimously passed H.B. No. 7055, a bill that was reintroduced by State Representative Brian Lanoue (R-45), for the 2025 Legislative Session. Now a committee bill, it aims to exempt the first $2,000 in stipends for volunteer firefighters and EMS personnel in Connecticut.
During a Public Hearing in February, Jewett City Fire Department Captain, Richard Waselik, testified in front of the committee and detailed the time, dangers, and training that was necessary for volunteer fire service members each year. With the many demands that need to be met by local volunteers, the bill strives to help promote recruitment and retention, with the hopes of giving people a little more incentive to serve their communities.
“I want to thank the Public Safety and Security Committee for adding this very important legislative proposal into this committee bill,” said Rep. Lanoue. “Since the very beginning stages of trying to get this volunteer stipends priority on the move, many legislators from both sides of the aisle have been very supportive. I appreciate the advocacy from our Committee Chairs Rep. Boyd, and Sen. Gaston, along with their vice-chairs, and both of our Ranking Members Rep. Howard, and Sen. Cicarella, for all pulling together to get this out of committee.”
If passed, the bill would further support local volunteer fire departments which have seen a drop of enrollment over recent years. Just last year, Rep. Lanoue’s understanding of these personnel issues prompted him into action to champion a proposal that would help streamline the bureaucracy on certifications for active-duty military personnel and fire departments regarding Q endorsements by granting reciprocity with the proper military certifications. The bill was passed unanimously through the House and Senate and was signed into law by Governor Lamont in May of 2024.
“With the legislative success that we achieved last year to help bolster the fire service throughout Connecticut, it is my hope that we can add one more piece of the puzzle this year specifically aimed at our volunteer departments,” Rep. Lanoue continued. “The men and women of our volunteer fire service are the front lines for many of us and will leave the safety of their home at a moment’s notice to help others; to me this is a no-brainer.”
The bill was referred to the Finance, Revenue, and Bonding Committee where it will await further action.
The 2025 Connecticut Legislative Session adjourns on Wednesday, June 4th.
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State Representative Brian Lanoue proudly represents the towns of Griswold, Ledyard, Lisbon, Preston, and Voluntown.