Stefano Connects Local Fire and EMS with Funding Opportunities

Sen. Pat Stefano (R-32) and Rep. Ryan Warner (R-52) shared information about how to access grant opportunities with first responders in Fayette at the Perryopolis Volunteer Fire Department

HARRISBURG – This week, Sen. Pat Stefano (R-32) held First Responders Funding Workshops in Perryopolis and Somerset.

Sen. Stefano, as chairman of the Senate Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee, recapped several measures that the General Assembly has taken to assist fire and emergency medical services (EMS). Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency Director Randy Padfield and Acting State Fire Commissioner Thomas Cook provided an overview of funding opportunities under their agencies, Department of General Services Marketing Manager Felicia Campbell presented on the COSTARS purchasing system and Senate Grants Specialists Joe Marsicano and Chris Yniguez provided guidance on applying for grants.

“I was pleased to offer this opportunity to local officials, firefighters and EMS providers,” said Sen. Stefano. “And more importantly, I was glad that so many first responders turned out, asked questions and gave feedback. I want to make sure our first responders have all the funding tools available to them.”

“In October, I held a similar workshop at the Bakersville Volunteer Fire Department,” said Sen. Stefano. “As a result of that discussion, I am introducing legislation, Senate Bill 1027, that would permit junior firefighters to be fully trained by the time they turn 18. We’ll be looking to bring this up at the committee meeting next week.”

The Senate Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee will be held on Monday, Feb. 7, at noon. It will be livestreamed on Senator Stefano’s Facebook page. 

CONTACT:  Nathan Silcox, 717-787-7175, nsilcox@pasen.gov

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