STATEHOUSE (June 4, 2024) – The Hope Volunteer Fire Department recently received new personal protective equipment thanks to a $10 million statewide investment supported by State Rep. Jennifer Meltzer (R-Shelbyville).
Meltzer voted in support of the funding to supply sets of personal protective equipment including turnout gear and self-contained breathing apparatuses to more than 60 volunteer fire departments across Indiana. Meltzer said volunteer departments often operate with limited budgets and struggle to replace outdated equipment.
"Being a firefighter means facing dangerous situations whether it's responding to a blazing building, a car wreck or other disasters," Meltzer said. "With this investment, more volunteers will be better equipped to face these challenges, which is critical for their safety and those they serve."0
According to the U.S. Fire Administration, more than 70% of Indiana firefighters are volunteers. Meltzer said volunteer fire service is essential, especially in rural communities, and the new funding prioritizes those departments with the highest need and oldest equipment.
The Indiana Fire and Public Safety Academy, led by the Indiana State Fire Marshall and the Indiana Department of Homeland Security, worked with MES Inc. to distribute the equipment.
In 2023, Meltzer also supported a new law that allows counties to adopt a resolution for one or more township fire departments, volunteer fire departments, or fire districts and territories to receive up to .05% of their public safety local income tax. Meltzer said this can be a great local option for sustainable funding and he hopes more counties consider it.
Visit in.gov/dhs to learn more about the PPE distribution to volunteer fire departments across Indiana.
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State Rep. Jennifer Meltzer (R-Shelbyville) represents House District 73,
which includes portions of Bartholomew, Decatur, Jennings and Shelby counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
