Sponsor Statement for SB 139

Aid to Volunteer Fire Departments

Senate Bill 139 revises current statutes which limits funding for volunteer fire departments to those which are not in an organized municipality. This bill, when enacted, would provide for payment to any volunteer fire department and not be restricted to only those in the unorganized area. The payment amount remains the same, $10.00 per capita for the population served, as determined by the state fire marshal.

It has come to my attention that there are a number of small, volunteer fire departments in Alaska which are not the beneficiary of this existing program. They are within an organized borough, but receive no financial support from either the borough or applicable municipality. There are also some who receive very limited financial support from either source.

I am of the opinion that this support for volunteer fire departments should extend to all areas of the state and not just those in the unorganized areas. Certainly, public safety is a high priority and should encompass all peoples.

SS: SB 139: S(CRA) 3/17/97: mj