The Senate Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee advanced five bills on Apr. 21 to strengthen support for Pennsylvania’s first responders, according to Sen. Doug Mastriano, who chairs the committee.
These measures address key issues faced by firefighters, emergency medical technicians (EMTs), and dispatchers across the state. The legislation aims to reduce toxic chemical exposure, streamline grant applications, and extend benefits to more emergency personnel.
“Our brave firefighters and EMTs, who put their lives on the line to protect us during our worst moments, have been facing serious challenges in recent years,” Mastriano said. “From protecting firefighters from toxic chemicals, to removing burdensome requirements, to ensuring all dispatchers have access to key resources, these bills help support our first responders as they work to keep us safe.”
The committee approved two bills restricting per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in firefighting foam—Senate Bill 980 and House Bill 1261—to limit exposure risks for firefighters and communities. Senate Bill 923 would exempt volunteer fire and EMS agencies from Right-to-Know Law requirements due to staffing shortages identified in a bipartisan report commissioned by the General Assembly.
House Bill 453 reclassifies 911 dispatchers as first responders under state law so they can access programs such as post-traumatic stress disorder treatment that are available for other emergency workers. Senate Bill 1261 proposes technical changes aimed at simplifying the Fire and EMS Grant program application process while also increasing loan amounts available through the State Fire Commissioner’s low-interest loan program.
All five measures will move forward for consideration by the full Senate. Mastriano has advanced community service through veteran support efforts according to his official website. He has focused on supporting veterans via legislative measures and community initiatives according to his official website. Mastriano serves as chairman of both the Senate Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee as well as the Senate Local Government Committee according to his official website. He represents Adams and Franklin counties in Pennsylvania according to his official website.
Mastriano has championed various initiatives for veterans through legislative action according to his official website, operating within state governance as a representative according to his official website.
