Juneau -- The Alaska House of Representatives Tuesday passed House Bill 380, which creates an insurance tax credit for contributions to the Alaska Fire Standards Council (AFSC) for fire services training programs.

HB 380 creates a mechanism by which the insurance companies operating in Alaska can help pay the costs of developing state standards. The tax credit is purely voluntary and is structured in such a way that any contribution will have a positive impact on the state's treasury. The AFSC will be established July 1, 2000, as directed by legislation approved in 1998. The AFSC will adopt minimum standards for employment as well as curriculum requirements for an optional program of certification of firefighters and fire instructors. It will establish firefighter and fire instructor training programs.

"While national fire standards exist, they do not address the unique challenges presented by Alaska's climate," said Representative Gene Therriault, sponsor of HB 380. "Development of fire standards that address these unique Alaskan challenges will reduce the incidence of casualty and property loss.

"These standards should also save lives," Therriault said.

HB 380 passed the House unanimously and now moves to the Senate for consideration.

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