As expected the House and Senate are handling Budget and Covid related bills and issues. The report below shows the bills we are tracking, but thus far most action has been related to continuation of government. We’ll continue to monitor. There were two bills introduced in the House and Senate in regards to studying PFAS, which at some point could impact firefighter gear and foam, but these are general EPA bills and do not directly mention firefighter equipment or foam. We’ll continue to monitor this issue. Hopefully a compromise can be found that removes these harmful carcinogens without impacting firefighter safety.

Tim Bradley, Executive Director

Debbie Clary

This report below includes all legislation that has been introduced in this Session at both the State Level and Federal Level. It includes the bill number and a brief description. You can access the legislation by clicking on the Bill number (HB XX) or (SB XX) on the left and it will take you directly to the legislative site specific to that Bill, including history, sponsors, and actions. Once there you can click on the title for full text.

Federal

These are Federal Level Bills of importance to the fire service that have been introduced in the current session. Information on the bills come from a number of sources including the IAFC and NVFC. It is important to note that many issues affecting the fire service are in the budget bill, including AFG, SAFRE, USFA/NFA Funding, and VFA. When talking with your Congressional Representatives be sure and ask them to keep these items funded in the budget as requested by members of the Congressional Fire Services Institute (CFSI).

HR 1241

Support

John Larson

Volunteer Responder Incentive Protection Act of 2019

2/14/2019 – House – Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

NC Bills

Here are the North Carolina Bills of interest affecting the fire service that the NCSFA/NCAFC’S legislative committee will be following at this point.

H 0018

Passed

Julia Howard

Allow Absentee Ballots/Fire District Election

7/19/2019 – Ch. SL 2019-136

H 0081

Support

Brenden Jones

Move Over Law/Increase Penalties

2/14/2019 – House – Ref to the Com on Judiciary Subcommittee on Criminal Matters, if favorable, Judiciary, if favorable, Finance, if favorable, Transportation, if favorable, Appropriations, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House

H 0118

Support

Harry Warren

First Responders Act of 2019

5/7/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate

H 0120

Support

Debra Conrad

Clarify Fire District Funding Eligibility

5/29/2019 – Senate – Re-ref to Finance. If fav, re-ref to State and Local Government. If fav, re-ref to Rules and Operations of the Senate

H 0144

Support

Harold Corbin

Prohibits using a phone or handheld device while driving.

6/20/2019 – Senate – Re-ref to Commerce and Insurance. If fav, re-ref to Judiciary. If fav, re-ref to Rules and Operations of the Senate

H 0159

Priority

Robert Davis

Provides funding for Search and Rescue Teams

3/13/2019 – House – Re-ref Com On Appropriations, Justice and Public Safety

H 0213

Priority

George Cleveland

Creates a tax benefit for retirees of state or local government similar to the tax exemption given to employees vested before 1999. Some call it the Bailey Act.

3/5/2019 – House – Re-ref to the Com on Finance, if favorable, Pensions and Retirement, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House

H 0220

Passed

Mitchell Setzer

Under Part X, clarifies the NC Fire and Rescue Commission Rule Making Authority.

7/26/2019 – Ch. SL 2019-179

H 0278

Priority

Jason Saine

Separation Allowance Bill

5/7/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate

H 0283

Passed

Brenden Jones

Provides benefits ($100,000) to Public Safety Officer murdered while performing their duties.

10/9/2019 – Ch. SL 2019-228

H 0466

Support

Dennis Riddell

Adds 3 new Cancers to Line of Duty Death for firefighters

4/11/2019 – House – Re-ref Com On Appropriations, General Government

H 0520

Support

David Lewis

This is a Presumptive Cancer Bill

5/6/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate

H 0573

Support

Phillip Shepard

Mirrors recently passed legislation in Florida giving PTS coverage under workers compensation for specific events within a year.

4/4/2019 – House – Ref to the Com on Judiciary, if favorable, State and Local Government, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House

H 0597

Passed

James Adams

Wildlife Resources Commission Amends

8/27/2019 – Ch. SL 2019-204

H 0606

Support

Allen McNeill

Increases Penalties for certain types of Arson including Commercial

5/6/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate

H 0615

Oppose

John Szoka

Increases the use and size of consumer fireworks. Sister bill to SB 566.

6/13/2019 – House – Re-ref to the Com on Regulatory Reform, if favorable, Finance, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House

H 0622

Support

Holly Grange

Provides Workers Compensation for PTS in firefighters within 1 year of occurrence for certain types of exposures.

5/6/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate

H 0631

Support

Keith Kidwell

Allows up to a $500 business tax credit for firefighters and rescue workers who are not reimbursed for their expenses.

4/9/2019 – House – Ref to the Com on Finance, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House

H 0675

Passed

Mark Brody

Creates a “Residential Change-out Inspector Certification under the Code Qualifications Board to inspect change outs in residential homes.

7/26/2019 – Ch. SL 2019-174

H 0730

Oppose

John Szoka

Ammends the NC Building Code allowing “door step” trash containers in multi-family dwellings, some of which may be in corridors of egress, and limits the size and time they can be there.

5/6/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate

H 0966

Monitor

Linda Johnson

2019 Appropriations Act

1/14/2020 – Senate – Re-ref Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate

H 1085

Monitor

Rachel Hunt

Front Line State Employee Hazard Pay/Funds

5/14/2020 – House – Ref to the Com on Appropriations, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House

H 1142

Monitor

Carolyn Logan

Benefit Parity for EMS/TSERS/LGERS

5/18/2020 – House – Ref to the Com on Pensions and Retirement, if favorable, Appropriations, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House

S 0020

Support

Danny Britt

Emergency Worker Protection Act

3/13/2019 – House – Ref to the Com on Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House, if favorable, Judiciary, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House

S 0029

Passed

Danny Britt

Move Over Law/Increase Penalties/Amber Lights

7/22/2019 – Ch. SL 2019-157

S 0179

Priority

William Jackson

Separation Allowance

3/5/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate

S 0346

Support

Donald Davis

Provides sales tax exemptions to volunteer non-profit fire/rescue departments

3/25/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate

S 0349

Priority

Jerry Tillman

This increases funding to keep our Fire and Rescue Pension Fund, Relief Fund, VSWCF, and Fire Grants Solvent

3/26/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate

S 0396

Priority

Norman Sanderson

State Search and Rescue Funding

3/28/2019 – Senate – Re-ref to Appropriations/Base Budget. If fav, re-ref to Rules and Operations of the Senate

S 0416

Priority

Warren Daniel

This provides a loan forgiveness program for firefighters at DCC, free hunting and fishing licenses, a reduced property tax, all to eligible volunteer firefighters, nd increases the Fire and Rescue Pension to $180.

5/14/2019 – Senate – Re-ref to State and Local Government. If fav, re-ref to Finance. If fav, re-ref to Rules and Operations of the Senate

S 0429

Support

Paul Newton

Supplioes Funding for SAR teams, page 3, Item 7.

9/18/2019 – Ch. SL 2019-224

S 0519

Support

Jim Burgin

Licensing Certain Fire Safety Equip. Work

4/3/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate

S 0553

Oppose

Norman Sanderson

Affects Trash Collection in Apartments, Temp Event Venues, Architectural Exceptions, and an Interstate Study for Emergency Vehicles.

1/14/2020 – Senate – Failed To Override Veto

S 0566

Oppose

Richard Gunn

Increases the Use and Sale of Fireworks in NC.

4/3/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate

S 0598

Support

Charles Edwards

Provides $100,000 in funding to assist fire departments responding to state lands.

4/4/2019 – Senate – Re-ref to Appropriations/Base Budget. If fav, re-ref to Rules and Operations of the Senate

S 0631

Support

Danny Britt

Increases the responsibility of the Commissioner of Insurance on Arson reporting and investigation.

4/4/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate

S 0743

Support

Kirk deViere

Expand Fire Grant Fund

5/18/2020 – Senate – Re-ref to Appropriations/Base Budget. If fav, re-ref to Rules and Operations of the Senate

2019/2020 legislative Session Update #28

2019

As of Tuesday morning, November 5th, 2019. 

Current bill status as it stands now are listed below. There was not a lot of activity related to the fire service last week, but we are following bills on our list as movement is indicated.

Tim Bradley, Executive Director

Debbie Clary

This report below includes all legislation that has been introduced in this Session at both the State Level and Federal Level. It includes the bill number and a brief description. You can access the legislation by clicking on the Bill number (HB XX) or (SB XX) on the left and it will take you directly to the legislative site specific to that Bill, including history, sponsors, and actions. Once there you can click on the title for full text.

Federal

These are Federal Level Bills of importance to the fire service that have been introduced in the current session. Information on the bills come from a number of sources including the IAFC and NVFC. It is important to note that many issues affecting the fire service are in the budget bill, including AFG, SAFRE, USFA/NFA Funding, and VFA. When talking with your Congressional Representatives be sure and ask them to keep these items funded in the budget as requested by members of the Congressional Fire Services Institute (CFSI).

HR 1241

Support

John Larson

Volunteer Responder Incentive Protection Act of 2019

2/14/2019 – House – Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

NC Bills

Here are the North Carolina Bills of interest affecting the fire service that the NCSFA/NCAFC’S legislative committee will be following at this point.

H 0018

Passed

Julia Howard

Allow Absentee Ballots/Fire District Election

7/19/2019 – Ch. SL 2019-136

H 0081

Support

Brenden Jones

Move Over Law/Increase Penalties

2/14/2019 – House – Ref to the Com on Judiciary Subcommittee on Criminal Matters, if favorable, Judiciary, if favorable, Finance, if favorable, Transportation, if favorable, Appropriations, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House

H 0118

Support

Harry Warren

First Responders Act of 2019

5/7/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate

H 0120

Support

Debra Conrad

Clarify Fire District Funding Eligibility

5/29/2019 – Senate – Re-ref to Finance. If fav, re-ref to State and Local Government. If fav, re-ref to Rules and Operations of the Senate

H 0144

Support

Harold Corbin

Prohibits using a phone or handheld device while driving.

6/20/2019 – Senate – Re-ref to Commerce and Insurance. If fav, re-ref to Judiciary. If fav, re-ref to Rules and Operations of the Senate

H 0159

Priority

Robert Davis

Provides funding for Search and Rescue Teams

3/13/2019 – House – Re-ref Com On Appropriations, Justice and Public Safety

H 0213

Priority

George Cleveland

Creates a tax benefit for retirees of state or local government similar to the tax exemption given to employees vested before 1999. Some call it the Bailey Act.

3/5/2019 – House – Re-ref to the Com on Finance, if favorable, Pensions and Retirement, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House

H 0220

Passed

Mitchell Setzer

Under Part X, clarifies the NC Fire and Rescue Commission Rule Making Authority.

7/26/2019 – Ch. SL 2019-179

H 0278

Priority

Jason Saine

Separation Allowance Bill

5/7/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate

H 0283

Passed

Brenden Jones

Provides benefits ($100,000) to Public Safety Officer murdered while performing their duties.

10/9/2019 – Ch. SL 2019-228

H 0466

Support

Dennis Riddell

Adds 3 new Cancers to Line of Duty Death for firefighters

4/11/2019 – House – Re-ref Com On Appropriations, General Government

H 0520

Support

David Lewis

This is a Presumptive Cancer Bill

5/6/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate

H 0573

Support

Phillip Shepard

Mirrors recently passed legislation in Florida giving PTS coverage under workers compensation for specific events within a year.

4/4/2019 – House – Ref to the Com on Judiciary, if favorable, State and Local Government, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House

H 0597

Passed

James Adams

Wildlife Resources Commission Amends

8/27/2019 – Ch. SL 2019-204

H 0606

Support

Allen McNeill

Increases Penalties for certain types of Arson including Commercial

5/6/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate

H 0615

Oppose

John Szoka

Increases the use and size of consumer fireworks. Sister bill to SB 566.

6/13/2019 – House – Re-ref to the Com on Regulatory Reform, if favorable, Finance, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House

H 0622

Support

Holly Grange

Provides Workers Compensation for PTS in firefighters within 1 year of occurrence for certain types of exposures.

5/6/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate

H 0631

Support

Keith Kidwell

Allows up to a $500 business tax credit for firefighters and rescue workers who are not reimbursed for their expenses.

4/9/2019 – House – Ref to the Com on Finance, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House

H 0675

Passed

Mark Brody

Creates a “Residential Change-out Inspector Certification under the Code Qualifications Board to inspect change outs in residential homes.

7/26/2019 – Ch. SL 2019-174

H 0730

Oppose

John Szoka

Amends the NC Building Code allowing “door step” trash containers in multi-family dwellings, some of which may be in corridors of egress, and limits the size and time they can be there.

5/6/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate

H 0966

Monitor

Linda Johnson

2019 Appropriations Act

10/31/2019 – Senate – Re-ref Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate

S 0020

Support

Danny Britt

Emergency Worker Protection Act

3/13/2019 – House – Ref to the Com on Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House, if favorable, Judiciary, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House

S 0029

Passed

Danny Britt

Move Over Law/Increase Penalties/Amber Lights

7/22/2019 – Ch. SL 2019-157

S 0179

Priority

William Jackson

Separation Allowance

3/5/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate

S 0346

Support

Donald Davis

Provides sales tax exemptions to volunteer non-profit fire/rescue departments

3/25/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate

S 0349

Priority

Jerry Tillman

This increases funding to keep our Fire and Rescue Pension Fund, Relief Fund, VSWCF, and Fire Grants Solvent

3/26/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate

S 0396

Priority

Norman Sanderson

State Search and Rescue Funding

3/28/2019 – Senate – Re-ref to Appropriations/Base Budget. If fav, re-ref to Rules and Operations of the Senate

S 0416

Priority

Warren Daniel

This provides a loan forgiveness program for firefighters at DCC, free hunting and fishing licenses, a reduced property tax, all to eligible volunteer firefighters, and increases the Fire and Rescue Pension to $180.

5/14/2019 – Senate – Re-ref to State and Local Government. If fav, re-ref to Finance. If fav, re-ref to Rules and Operations of the Senate

S 0429

Support

Paul Newton

Supplies Funding for SAR teams, page 3, Item 7.

9/18/2019 – Ch. SL 2019-224

S 0519

Support

Jim Burgin

Licensing Certain Fire Safety Equip. Work

4/3/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate

S 0553

Oppose

Norman Sanderson

Affects Trash Collection in Apartments, Temp Event Venues, Architectural Exceptions, and an Interstate Study for Emergency Vehicles.

10/31/2019 – Senate – Re-ref Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate

S 0566

Oppose

Richard Gunn

Increases the Use and Sale of Fireworks in NC.

4/3/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate

S 0598

Support

Charles Edwards

Provides $100,000 in funding to assist fire departments responding to state lands.

4/4/2019 – Senate – Re-ref to Appropriations/Base Budget. If fav, re-ref to Rules and Operations of the Senate

S 0631

Support

Danny Britt

Increases the responsibility of the Commissioner of Insurance on Arson reporting and investigation.

4/4/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate

____________________________________________________________________ 

Joint Legislative Committee – This committee was established by both the NCSFA and NCAFC’s Executive Boards to address legislative issues that impact the Fire Service of North Carolina.  The Committee Members are:  

•      AC Rich, NCSFA – Chairperson

•      Scott Rogers, NCSFA 

•      Quentin Cash, NCSFA

•      Anthony Penland, NCSFA 

•      Tim Bradley, NCSFA 

•      Ed Brinson, NCSFA 

 •     Debbie Clary, Lobbyist

•      Kevin Gordon, NCAFC

•      Donnie Hall, NCAFC 

•      Ryan Cole, NCAFC

•      Chris Langham, NCAFC

•      Jake Whisnant, NCAFC

•      Jeff Cash, NCAFC

For additional information contact:

Tim Bradley, Executive Director

AC Rich, Chairman

Debbie Clary, Governmental Affairs

2019/2020 legislative Session Update #27

2019

As of Tuesday morning, October 29, 2019. 

The bill status has been updated to remove the designation “Monitor” from bills supported by NCSFA/NCAFC. While it was being used internally as a way to track certain bills, either held or awaiting specific action, it was causing confusion with members on the report. I left the Appropriations bill under “Monitor” so I could get immediate notification of votes on it. All others have been changed back to “Support” to avoid confusion.

Tim Bradley, Executive Director 

Debbie Clary 

This report below includes all legislation that has been introduced in this Session at both the State Level and Federal Level. It includes the bill number and a brief description. You can access the legislation by clicking on the Bill number (HB XX) or (SB XX) on the left and it will take you directly to the legislative site specific to that Bill, including history, sponsors, and actions. Once there you can click on the title for full text. 

____________________________________________________________________ 

Joint Legislative Committee – This committee was established by both the NCSFA and NCAFC’s Executive Boards to address legislative issues that impact the Fire Service of North Carolina.  The Committee Members are:  

•      AC Rich, NCSFA – Chairperson

•      Scott Rogers, NCSFA 

•      Quentin Cash, NCSFA

•      Anthony Penland, NCSFA 

•      Tim Bradley, NCSFA 

•      Ed Brinson, NCSFA 

 •     Debbie Clary, Lobbyist

•       Kevin Gordon, NCAFC

•      Donnie Hall, NCAFC 

•      Ryan Cole, NCAFC

•      Chris Langham, NCAFC

•      Jake Whisnant, NCAFC

•      Jeff Cash, NCAFC 

For additional information contact:

Tim Bradley, Executive Director

AC Rich, Chairman

Debbie Clary, Governmental Affairs

2019/2020 legislative Session Update #25

2019

As of Friday morning, Ocotber 4, 2019. 

Tim Bradley, Executive Director

Debbie Clary

This report below includes all legislation that has been introduced in this Session at both the State Level and Federal Level. It includes the bill number and a brief description. You can access the legislation by clicking on the Bill number (HB XX) or (SB XX) on the left and it will take you directly to the legislative site specific to that Bill, including history, sponsors, and actions. Once there you can click on the title for full text. 

2019/2020 legislative Session Update #22

2019

As of Thursday morning, September 12, 2019.

2019 Legislative Summary

August 30, 2019

The following is a review of major bills the fire service was following this session. Although the session has not ended, making it a changing document, I’ve tried to project which would pass that haven’t, which may be eligible next year, and which were moved to other bills.

NC Bills

H 0018

Monitor

Julia Howard

Allow Absentee Ballots/Fire District Election

7/19/2019 – Ch. SL 2019-136

This bill now allows absentee ballots during fire district elections. The Chapter Law is written above. Applicable section:

SECTION 1.  G.S. 163A-1295(c) is repealed. SECTION 2.  This act is effective when it becomes law and applies to fire district elections held on or after that date.

H 0081

Support

Brenden Jones

Move Over Law/Increase Penalties

2/14/2019 – House – Ref to the Com on Judiciary Subcommittee on Criminal Matters, if favorable, Judiciary, if favorable, Finance, if favorable, Transportation, if favorable, Appropriations, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House

This bill did not pass, but Move Over Law Penalties was passed in SB 29. See SB 29 for additional.

H 0118

Monitor

Harry Warren

First Responders Act of 2019

5/7/2019 – Senate – Ref to Com on Rules and Operations of the Senate

This bill did not pass, although one portion of it involving interstate access was included in SB 553.

H 0120

Support

Debra Conrad

Clarify Fire District Funding Eligibility

5/29/2019 – Senate – Re-ref to Finance. If fav, re-ref to State and Local Government. If fav, re-ref to Rules and Operations of the Senate

This bill passed the House and was held in the Senate at the request of the Bill sponsor. If normal rules are followed during the short session, it could be eligible next year if necessary.

H 0144

Support

Harold Corbin

Prohibits using a phone or handheld device while driving.

6/20/2019 – Senate – Re-ref to Commerce and Insurance. If fav, re-ref to Judiciary. If fav, re-ref to Rules and Operations of the Senate

This bill passed the House and may be eligible next year during the short session if not passed this year.

H 0159

Priority

Robert Davis

Provides funding for Search and Rescue Teams

3/13/2019 – House – Re-ref Com on Appropriations, Justice and Public Safety

This bill did not pass but was included in the budget bill. See H 0966.

H0213

Priority

George Cleveland

Creates a tax benefit for retirees of state or local government similar to the tax exemption given to employees vested before 1999. Some call it the Bailey Act.

3/5/2019 – House – Re-ref to the Com on Finance, if favorable, Pensions and Retirement, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House

A bill we supported, but did not pass either Chamber. It had a significant amount of early support, but the cost was viewed as too high.

H 0220

Support

Mitchell Setzer

Under Part X, clarifies the NC Fire and Rescue Commission Rule Making Authority.

7/26/2019 – Ch. SL 2019-179

This bill passed clarifying rule making authority of the Fire and Rescue Commission. Applicable Section:

PART VIII. CLARIFY RULE-MAKING AUTHORITY FOR STATE FIRE AND RESCUE COMMISSION SECTION 8.  G.S. 58-78-5(a) is amended by adding a new subdivision to read: “(a) The Commission shall have the following powers and duties: … (17) To adopt, modify, or repeal any rules and regulations necessary for the purpose of carrying out the provisions of this Article.”

H 0278

Priority

Jason Saine

Separation Allowance Bill

5/7/2019 – Senate – Ref to Com on Rules and Operations of the Senate

This bill passed the House after it was converted to a study bill, but was not heard in the Senate.

H 0283

Support

Brenden Jones

Provides benefits ($100,000) to Public Safety Officer murdered while performing their duties.

8/28/2019 – Senate – Passed 2nd Reading

This bill will likely pass. It has passed the House and is in the Senate awaiting concurrence.

H 0466

Support

Dennis Riddell

Adds 3 new Cancers to Line of Duty Death for firefighters

4/11/2019 – House – Re-ref Com on Appropriations, General Government

This bill has not passed, but some of it was included in the budget bill. See HB 966.

H 0520

Monitor

David Lewis

This is a Presumptive Cancer Bill

5/6/2019 – Senate – Ref to Com on Rules and Operations of the Senate

This bill passed the House but was held in Senate Rules. It may be eligible next year if not passed this year.

H 0553

Monitor

Larry Strickland

Licensing Certain Fire Safety Equip. Work

6/13/2019 – Senate – Ref to Com on Rules and Operations of the Senate

Has not passed.

H 0560

Monitor

Mary Harrison

Ban PFAS in Fire Retardant Foam

4/4/2019 – House – Ref to the Com on Environment, if favorable, Judiciary, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House

This bill has not been heard.

H 0573

Support

Phillip Shepard

Mirrors recently passed legislation in Florida giving PTS coverage under workers compensation for specific events within a year.

4/4/2019 – House – Ref to the Com on Judiciary, if favorable, State and Local Government, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House

This bill has not been heard.

H 0597

Support

James Adams

Wildlife Resources Commission Amends

8/27/2019 – Ch. SL 2019-204

This bill adds a section granting reduced lifetime hunting/fishing licenses to volunteer firefighters with more than five consecutive years including the previous year. It is effective in October, but specifics on process have not been released. Applicable Section:

FEE REDUCTION OF LIFETIME HUNTING AND FISHING LICENSES ISSUABLE TO A VOLUNTEER FIREFIGHTER WHO HAS SERVED FOR AT LEAST FIVE YEARS SECTION 12.  G.S. 113-276 is amended by adding a new subsection to read: “(o) An eligible member of a volunteer fire department for five consecutive fiscal years, including the prior fiscal year, may be issued any adult resident lifetime license issued and administered by the Wildlife Resources Commission for fifty percent (50%) of the applicable license fee amount. For purposes of this subsection, the term “eligible member” means an individual appearing on the certified roster of eligible firefighters submitted to the North Carolina State Firefighters’ Association under G.S. 58-86-25.”

H 0606

Support

Allen McNeill

Increases Penalties for certain types of Arson including Commercial

5/6/2019 – Senate – Ref to Com on Rules and Operations of the Senate

This bill has passed the House and may be eligible next year if not passed in this session.

H 0615

Oppose

John Szoka

Increases the use and size of consumer fireworks. Sister bill to SB 566.

6/13/2019 – House – Re-ref to the Com on Regulatory Reform, if favorable, Finance, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House

Has not passed either Chamber.

H0622

Support

Holly Grange

Provides Workers Compensation for PTS in firefighters within 1 year of occurrence for certain types of exposures.

5/6/2019 – Senate – Ref to Com on Rules and Operations of the Senate

This bill passed the House but was held in Senate Rules. It may be eligible next year if not passed this year

H0631

Support

Keith Kidwell

Allows up to a $500 business tax credit for firefighters and rescue workers who are not reimbursed for their expenses.

4/9/2019 – House – Ref to the Com on Finance, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House

Has not passed.

H0675

Monitor

Mark Brody

Creates a “Residential Change-out Inspector Certification under the Code Qualifications Board to inspect change outs in residential homes.

7/26/2019 – Ch. SL 2019-174

This bill has passed and creates a change-out inspector qualification and various other changes to the building code. The Chapter Law is listed above.

H0730

Monitor

John Szoka

Amends the NC Building Code allowing “doorstep” trash containers in multi-family dwellings, some of which may be in corridors of egress, and limits the size and time they can be there.

5/6/2019 – Senate – Ref to Com on Rules and Operations of the Senate

This bill has not passed, but portions of it were included in SB 553 which is near passage.

H 0966

Monitor

Linda Johnson

2019 Appropriations Act

7/1/2019 – House – Placed on Cal for 07/08/201

This bill has passed both Chambers, but was vetoed by the Governor. The House voted 9/11/19 to override the Governor’s veto and it passed. It now goes to the Senate for a veto override vote. It seems likely to pass the Senate. Several Sections apply to the fire service as follows:

Included in the budget bill was a $2 million-dollar appropriation for Search and Rescue Funds in 2010/2020, and a $1,000,000 appropriation in 2020/2021. Also included in the budget bill was the addition of two types of cancer to LODD, Oral Cavity and Pharynx Cancer, and Intestinal Cancer was changed to Cancers of the Small Intestine. Those are added to Mesothelioma, Testicular, and Esophageal bringing the total to six. In addition, the General Assembly provided more funding to the Fire and Rescue Workers Pension than required by annual contribution formulas.  Search and Rescue Funds are on page E46 and E50 of the report. Cancer is on 292 and 293 of the budget bill. There are also numerous directed grants in Section 52 to individual fire departments.

S 0020

Support

Danny Britt

Emergency Worker Protection Act

3/13/2019 – House – Ref to the Com on Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House, if favorable, Judiciary, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House

This bill did not pass.

S 0029

Support

Danny Britt

Move Over Law/Increase Penalties/Amber Lights

7/22/2019 – Ch. SL 2019-157

This bill passed and is now Chapter Law. See designation above. It changes the penalty from a Class I Felony to a Class F Felony.

S 0179

Priority

William Jackson

Separation Allowance

3/5/2019 – Senate – Ref to Com on Rules and Operations of the Senate

Was not heard so far this session.

S 0334

Monitor

Erica Smith-Ingram

Provides funds to a training center and fire department.

3/26/2019 – Senate – Re-ref to Appropriations/Base Budget. If fav, re-ref to Rules and Operations of the Senate

Was not heard this session.

S 0346

Support

Donald Davis

Provides sales tax exemptions to volunteer non-profit fire/rescue departments

3/25/2019 – Senate – Ref to Com on Rules and Operations of the Senate

Was not heard this session.

S0349

Priority

Jerry Tillman

This increases funding to keep our Fire and Rescue Pension Fund, Relief Fund, VSWCF, and Fire Grants Solvent

3/26/2019 – Senate – Ref to Com on Rules and Operations of the Senate

This was a bill to increase the Gross Premium Assessment but was not heard this session.

S 0396

Priority

Norman Sanderson

State Search and Rescue Funding

3/28/2019 – Senate – Re-ref to Appropriations/Base Budget. If fav, re-ref to Rules and Operations of the Senate

Included in the budget bill, See HB 966.

S0416

Priority

Warren Daniel

This provides a loan forgiveness program for firefighters at DCC, free hunting and fishing licenses, a reduced property tax, all to eligible volunteer firefighters, and increases the Fire and Rescue Pension to $180.

5/14/2019 – Senate – Re-ref to State and Local Government. If fav, re-ref to Finance. If fav, re-ref to Rules and Operations of the Senate

Was not voted on in committee this year, but a version of the wildlife license fee reduction was included in HB 597. See HB 597 for notes.

S 0519

Monitor

Jim Burgin

Licensing Certain Fire Safety Equip. Work

4/3/2019 – Senate – Ref to Com on Rules and Operations of the Senate

Was not heard this session.

S0553

Monitor

Norman Sanderson

Affects Trash Collection in Apartments, Temp Event Venues, Architectural Exceptions, and an Interstate Study for Emergency Vehicles.

8/29/2019 – House – Conf Report Adopted 3^rd

This bill has passed both House and Senate and has been presented to the Governor for signature. It affects trash collection at doorsteps of multi-family, temporary venue permits, and includes a study of interstate access by DOT and OSFM.

S 0566

Oppose

Richard Gunn

Increases the Use and Sale of Fireworks in NC.

4/3/2019 – Senate – Ref to Com on Rules and Operations of the Senate

Was not heard this session.

S 0598

Support

Charles Edwards

Provides $100,000 in funding to assist fire departments responding to state lands.

4/4/2019 – Senate – Re-ref to Appropriations/Base Budget. If fav, re-ref to Rules and Operations of the Senate

Was not heard this session.

S0655

Monitor

Michael Garrett

Bans the use of firefighting foam that contains certain carcinogenic chemicals in training, phases out their use when acceptable alternatives are available, and requires posting of flame-retardant labels on firefighter’s gear.

4/4/2019 – Senate – Ref to Com on Rules and Operations of the Senate

Was not heard this session.

Tim Bradley, Executive Director 

Debbie Clary 

This report below includes all legislation that has been introduced in this Session at both the State Level and Federal Level. It includes the bill number and a brief description. You can access the legislation by clicking on the Bill number (HB XX) or (SB XX) on the left and it will take you directly to the legislative site specific to that Bill, including history, sponsors, and actions. Once there you can click on the title for full text.

Federal

These are Federal Level Bills of importance to the fire service that have been introduced in the current session. Information on the bills come from a number of sources including the IAFC and NVFC. It is important to note that many issues affecting the fire service are in the budget bill, including AFG, SAFRE, USFA/NFA Funding, and VFA. When talking with your Congressional Representatives be sure and ask them to keep these items funded in the budget as requested by members of the Congressional Fire Services Institute (CFSI).

HR 1241

Support

John Larson

Volunteer Responder Incentive Protection Act of 2019

2/14/2019 – House – Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

NC Bills

Here are the North Carolina Bills of interest affecting the fire service that the NCSFA/NCAFC’S legislative committee will be following at this point.

H 0018

Monitor

Julia Howard

Allow Absentee Ballots/Fire District Election

7/19/2019 – Ch. SL 2019-136

H 0081

Support

Brenden Jones

Move Over Law/Increase Penalties

2/14/2019 – House – Ref to the Com on Judiciary Subcommittee on Criminal Matters, if favorable, Judiciary, if favorable, Finance, if favorable, Transportation, if favorable, Appropriations, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House

H 0118

Monitor

Harry Warren

First Responders Act of 2019

5/7/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate

H 0120

Support

Debra Conrad

Clarify Fire District Funding Eligibility

5/29/2019 – Senate – Re-ref to Finance. If fav, re-ref to State and Local Government. If fav, re-ref to Rules and Operations of the Senate

H 0144

Support

Harold Corbin

Prohibits using a phone or handheld device while driving.

6/20/2019 – Senate – Re-ref to Commerce and Insurance. If fav, re-ref to Judiciary. If fav, re-ref to Rules and Operations of the Senate

H 0159

Priority

Robert Davis

Provides funding for Search and Rescue Teams

3/13/2019 – House – Re-ref Com On Appropriations, Justice and Public Safety

H0213

Priority

George Cleveland

Creates a tax benefit for retirees of state or local government similar to the tax exemption given to employees vested before 1999. Some call it the Bailey Act.

3/5/2019 – House – Re-ref to the Com on Finance, if favorable, Pensions and Retirement, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House

H 0220

Support

Mitchell Setzer

Under Part X, clarifies the NC Fire and Rescue Commission Rule Making Authority.

7/26/2019 – Ch. SL 2019-179

H 0278

Priority

Jason Saine

Separation Allowance Bill

5/7/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate

H 0283

Support

Brenden Jones

Provides benefits ($100,000) to Public Safety Officer murdered while performing their duties.

9/11/2019 – House – Regular Message Received For Concurrence in S Amend

H 0349

Monitor

Jeffrey Elmore

Allows Wilkes County to change district lines on Chapter 69 Tax Districts.

7/8/2019 – Ch. SL 2019-96

H 0466

Support

Dennis Riddell

Adds 3 new Cancers to Line of Duty Death for firefighters

4/11/2019 – House – Re-ref Com On Appropriations, General Government

H 0520

Monitor

David Lewis

This is a Presumptive Cancer Nill

5/6/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate

H 0553

Monitor

Larry Strickland

Licensing Certain Fire Safety Equip. Work

6/13/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate

H 0560

Monitor

Mary Harrison

Ban PFAS in Fire Retardant Foam

4/4/2019 – House – Ref to the Com on Environment, if favorable, Judiciary, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House

H0573

Support

Phillip Shepard

Mirrors recently passed legislation in Florida giving PTS coverage under workers compensation for specific events within a year.

4/4/2019 – House – Ref to the Com on Judiciary, if favorable, State and Local Government, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House

H 0597

Support

James Adams

Wildlife Resources Commission Amends

8/27/2019 – Ch. SL 2019-204

H 0606

Support

Allen McNeill

Increases Penalties for certain types of Arson including Commercial

5/6/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate

H 0615

Oppose

John Szoka

Increases the use and size of consumer fireworks. Sister bill to SB 566.

6/13/2019 – House – Re-ref to the Com on Regulatory Reform, if favorable, Finance, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House

H0622

Support

Holly Grange

Provides Workers Compensation for PTS in firefighters within 1 year of occurrence for certain types of exposures.

5/6/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate

H0631

Support

Keith Kidwell

Allows up to a $500 business tax credit for firefighters and rescue workers who are not reimbursed for their expenses.

4/9/2019 – House – Ref to the Com on Finance, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House

H0675

Monitor

Mark Brody

Creates a “Residential Change-out Inspector Certification under the Code Qualifications Board to inspect change outs in residential homes.

7/26/2019 – Ch. SL 2019-174

H0730

Monitor

John Szoka

Amends the NC Building Code allowing “door step” trash containers in multi-family dwellings, some of which may be in corridors of egress, and limits the size and time they can be there.

5/6/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate

H 0825

Monitor

Joshua Dobson

Strengthen Child Fatality Prevention System

4/18/2019 – House – Ref to the Com on Health, if favorable, Appropriations, Health and Human Services, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House

H 0966

Monitor

Linda Johnson

2019 Appropriations Act

9/11/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate

S 0020

Support

Danny Britt

Emergency Worker Protection Act

3/13/2019 – House – Ref to the Com on Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House, if favorable, Judiciary, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House

S 0029

Support

Danny Britt

Move Over Law/Increase Penalties/Amber Lights

7/22/2019 – Ch. SL 2019-157

S 0179

Priority

William Jackson

Separation Allowance

3/5/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate

S 0334

Monitor

Erica Smith-Ingram

Provides funds to a training center and fire department.

3/26/2019 – Senate – Re-ref to Appropriations/Base Budget. If fav, re-ref to Rules and Operations of the Senate

S 0346

Support

Donald Davis

Provides sales tax exemptions to volunteer non-profit fire/rescue departments

3/25/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate

S0349

Priority

Jerry Tillman

This increases funding to keep our Fire and Rescue Pension Fund, Relief Fund, VSWCF, and Fire Grants Solvent

3/26/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate

S 0396

Priority

Norman Sanderson

State Search and Rescue Funding

3/28/2019 – Senate – Re-ref to Appropriations/Base Budget. If fav, re-ref to Rules and Operations of the Senate

S0416

Priority

Warren Daniel

This provides a loan forgiveness program for firefighters at DCC, free hunting and fishing licenses, a reduced property tax, all to eligible volunteer firefighters, nd increases the Fire and Rescue Pension to $180.

5/14/2019 – Senate – Re-ref to State and Local Government. If fav, re-ref to Finance. If fav, re-ref to Rules and Operations of the Senate

S 0519

Monitor

Jim Burgin

Licensing Certain Fire Safety Equip. Work

4/3/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate

S0553

Monitor

Norman Sanderson

Affects Trash Collection in Apartments, Temp Event Venues, Architectural Exceptions, and an Interstate Study for Emergency Vehicles.

9/12/2019 – Pres. To Gov. 9/12/2019

S 0566

Oppose

Richard Gunn

Increases the Use and Sale of Fireworks in NC.

4/3/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate

S 0598

Support

Charles Edwards

Provides $100,000 in funding to assist fire departments responding to state lands.

4/4/2019 – Senate – Re-ref to Appropriations/Base Budget. If fav, re-ref to Rules and Operations of the Senate

S0631

Support

Danny Britt

Increases the responsibility of the Commissioner of Insurance on Arson reporting and investigation.

4/4/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate

S0655

Monitor

Michael Garrett

Bans the use of firefighting foam that contains certain carcinogenic chemicals in training, phases out their use when acceptable alternatives are available, and requires posting of flame retardant labels on firefighters gear.

4/4/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate

2019/2020 legislative Session

Update #21

2019

Tim Bradley, Executive Director

Debbie Clary

This report below includes all legislation that has been introduced in this Session at both the State Level and Federal Level. It includes the bill number and a brief description. You can access the legislation by clicking on the Bill number (HB XX) or (SB XX) on the left and it will take you directly to the legislative site specific to that Bill, including history, sponsors, and actions. Once there you can click on the title for full text. 

____________________________________________________________________ 

Joint Legislative Committee – This committee was established by both the NCSFA and NCAFC’s Executive Boards to address legislative issues that impact the Fire Service of North Carolina.  The Committee Members are:  

•      AC Rich, NCSFA – Chairperson

• Scott Rogers, NCSFA 

•      Quentin Cash, NCSFA

•     Anthony Penland, NCSFA 

•     Tim Bradley, NCSFA 

•      Ed Brinson, NCSFA 

 •      Debbie Clary, Lobbyist

•      Kevin Gordon, NCAFC

•      Donnie Hall, NCAFC 

•      Ryan Cole, NCAFC

•      Chris Langham, NCAFC

•      Jake Whisnant, NCAFC

•      Jeff Cash, NCAFC

For additional information contact:

 Tim Bradley, Executive Director

AC Rich, Chairman

Debbie Clary, Governmental Affair

Tim Bradley, Executive Director

Debbie Clary

This report below includes all legislation that has been introduced in this Session at both the State Level and Federal Level. It includes the bill number and a brief description. You can access the legislation by clicking on the Bill number (HB XX) or (SB XX) on the left and it will take you directly to the legislative site specific to that Bill, including history, sponsors, and actions. Once there you can click on the title for full text.