Posted on May 2, 2024
Hartford- On Wednesday evening at the State Capitol, the House of Representatives passed H.B. No. 5404, An Act Concerning Military Training and Experience and the Driver’s License Endorsement to Operate Fire Apparatus, unanimously. This bill is a key piece of State Representative Brian Lanoue’s 2024 Legislative Priorities, and now awaits action in the Senate.
If passed in the Senate and signed by the governor, the legislation will help streamline the bureaucracy on certifications for active-duty military personnel and fire departments regarding Q license endorsements by granting reciprocity with the proper military certifications. Active-duty military personnel and recent veterans would have the opportunity to apply their skills locally, by operating fire apparatus with departments across Connecticut.
In March, the bill passed unanimously through the Veterans and Military Affairs Committee following a public hearing in which the bill garnered support. Testifying in favor of this important piece of legislation and offering their expertise in the field were two decorated public servants from the 45th District, Army Master Sgt. William Leuck, who also serves Griswold as a volunteer firefighter, along with Griswold Fire Chief Thomas Holowaty.
“There were many people who helped me get this bill across the finish line in committee and in the House, and it started at home in our district with Master Sgt. William Leuck, and Chief Holowaty,” said Rep. Lanoue. “Through their advocacy and the support that this bill was given in the Veterans’ Committee, I really think we produced a bill that is going to be a benefit to our veterans who have done so much for our country, and fire departments statewide who are facing significant enrollment issues.”
This legislation applies to both paid and volunteer fire departments across Connecticut. This bill offers the opportunity for our veterans and service members to continue serving their communities locally which will assist local departments with recruiting new volunteers with a history of service.
“I want to personally thank our House Republican Ranking member Kurt Vail, House Chair Anthony Nolan, along Vice-Chair Hubert Delany, for their constant work for our veterans in helping this bill be the absolute best it could be,” added Rep. Lanoue. “I also would like to acknowledge Senate Ranking Member Jeff Gordon, Senate Chair Martha Marx, Vice-Chair James Moroney, and the entire committee for the overwhelming support. During my tenure here in the Connecticut General Assembly, I have worked very hard across party lines to do what is in the best interest of our district and all of Connecticut. During this session, I have put forth several bills focused on helping families, first responders, and veterans throughout Connecticut – this is exactly why I refer to those bills as priorities.”
The 2024 Connecticut Legislative Session adjourns on May 8th.
