Solobay Proposes Legislation for ALS and EMT-P Training Funding

State Sen. Tim Solobay (D-Canonsburg) has introduced legislation that would allow volunteer firefighters’ relief association funds to be used to pay for the costs related to advanced life support (ALS) or paramedic (EMT-P) training.

"Trained advanced life support and paramedic technicians are critical in times of emergency,” Solobay stated. “Providing funding to train individuals in the areas of ALS and EMT-P ensures that our responders are better trained and able to react quickly and effectively in times of times of emergency."

Currently, the law authorizes the use of volunteer firefighters’ relief association fund for 16 separate categorized items, one of which is to pay for attending firefighters’ training schools, according to Solobay.

Solobay states his proposal would expand the authorized use of funds to allow for the payment of reasonable expenses incurred for attending emergency medical technician or paramedic training schools.

Similar legislation, introduced by Solobay in the 2011-12 session of the General Assembly, passed the Senate but was not considered in the House before the session expired.

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