2021 legislative Session Update #19
PTSD Bill (HB642) and Cancer Bill (HB 535) Pass House Health Committee
HB 642 and HB 535 both passed the House Health Committee this morning. Representatives from the NCSFA and Professional Firefighters were present and endorsed the bill. Law enforcement was also on hand to support HB 642.
This year continues to be an active year for bills in the General Assembly. HB 661 was introduced to allow 15 year olds to do fire training at the Community Colleges, which will help with Junior Firefighter Programs. HB 666 was introduced to increase the Fire and Rescue Pension, and HB 652 was introduced to expand the use of Consumer Fireworks.
Please take a look at the summary included with each bill we are tracking on the list and evaluate its effect on your department.
Legislative Day is scheduled for May 5th, Please mark your calendars for attendance. We will be meeting at 8:00 AM in the Insurance Building (Albermarle Building) which is the offices of OSFM, at the corner of Lane Street and Salisbury, right across the street from the Legislative Office Building. There is a visitor parking lot directly beside the building. We will prepare handouts and provide everyone copies.
Please plan to attend.
Tim Bradley, Executive Director
Quentin Cash, Legislative Committee Chairperson
Debbie Clary, Lobbyist
Each bill is marked with the status the NCSFA/NCAFC/PFFPNC Joint Legislative Committee has established, or simply Monitor for those bills related to fire, rescue, or safety which were introduced that the Committee has not discussed. Priority designation means the bill was listed as a Priority by the Committee, Support indicates those that are not our Priority but the Committee agreed to Support, and any that may be listed as Oppose would be those the Committee agreed to Oppose.
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.
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.
<!doctype html>
| H 0013 | Priority | Robert Davis | Provides Search and Rescue Funds For Regional Teams to DPS |
| 1/28/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Appropriations, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0025 | Monitor | James Clampitt | Impaired Driving Law Revisions |
| 2/1/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Judiciary 2, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0036 | Support | Kelly Hastings | Provides penalties for shooting into or pointing a laser at emergency vehicles |
| 3/29/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| H 0048 | Monitor | Harry Warren | Allows EMS personnel trained to do so to carry weapons during SWAT or similar law enforcement actions if the are embedded in the team. |
| 3/11/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| H 0052 | Support | George Cleveland | Similar to SB 4 and provides for equal treatment of government retirees on tax exemptions. |
| 2/4/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Finance, if favorable, State Personnel, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0075 | Monitor | George Cleveland | Gov’t Retirees Tax Deduction |
| 2/15/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Finance, if favorable, State Personnel, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0110 | Monitor | Bobby Hanig | Increase Building Permit Exemption Threshold |
| 3/25/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| H 0119 | Monitor | John Bradford | Property Tax Relief for COVID Affected Bus |
| 2/23/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Finance, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0134 | Monitor | Jeffrey McNeely | Second Amendment Protection Act. Allows guns on school property when used as a church. |
| 3/15/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| H 0198 | Monitor | Jeffrey McNeely | Allows certain exceptions to open burning law restrictions, and changes overtime pay requirements for forestry personnel on wildland fires. |
| 4/26/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| H 0203 | Monitor | John Faircloth | Extends deadline for certification of Telecommunicators |
| 3/31/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| H 0213 | Support | Patricia Hurley | Allows use of electronic devices with GPS such as phones to be used in search situations. |
| 4/21/2021 – House – Re-ref Com On Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0255 | Monitor | Charles Graham | Funds/New Pembroke Ladder Fire Truck |
| 3/11/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Appropriations, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0291 | Oppose | Jeff Zenger | Bldg. Plan Approval – Certain Commercial Prop |
| 4/22/2021 – House – Re-ref Com On Local Government – Land Use, Planning and Development | |||
| H 0315 | Monitor | Allen McNeill | Makes various changes to the Arson laws, including adding NCDOI to investigations and prohibits fire departments from allowing new members volunteer or career with a criminal history of arson or unlawful burning, and requires background checks. |
| 4/26/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| H 0342 | Monitor | Deb Butler | This bill requires new residential construction in one and two story single family dwellings to include an electrical circuit for vehicle charging. to |
| 3/23/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Local Government – Land Use, Planning and Development, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0355 | Support | Robert Davis | Requires all fire departments and FM offices to report and AFFF Foams in stock, and that need to be disposed of, and any uses during the year. The OFSM shall coordinate this reporting |
| 4/14/2021 – House – Serial Referral To Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House Added | |||
| H 0356 | Monitor | Destin Hall | Includes Speaker Appointment to the 911 Board representing the fire service. |
| 3/31/2021 – Ch. SL 2021-6 | |||
| H 0366 | Monitor | Lawrence Yarborough | Regulatory Reform Act of 2021 |
| 4/22/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| H 0404 | Monitor | Walter Zachary | Modifies immunity for 911 dispatchers. |
| 3/25/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Judiciary 2, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0432 | Support | Kelly Hastings | NC Assoc. of Fire Chiefs Special Reg. Plate |
| 3/30/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Transportation, if favorable, Finance, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0448 | Support | Larry Potts | Auth. Use of Blue Lights on Fire Apparatus |
| 3/31/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Judiciary 2, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0492 | Support | Donna White | WC/Psych. Trauma-Related Injuries |
| 4/8/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Health, if favorable, Judiciary 1, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0501 | Support | Mary Harrison | PFAS Manufacture/Use/Sale Ban |
| 4/12/2021 – House – Ref To Com On Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0502 | Support | Mary Harrison | PFAS Contamination Mitigation Measures |
| 4/12/2021 – House – Ref To Com On Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0503 | Support | Mary Harrison | PFAS Studies |
| 4/12/2021 – House – Ref To Com On Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0535 | Priority | Destin Hall | Firefighters Fighting Cancer Act of 2021 |
| 4/13/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Health, if favorable, Finance, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0575 | Support | Keith Kidwell | Volunteer Rescue Worker Tax Credit |
| 4/19/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Finance, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0614 | Monitor | Jonathan Hardister | Lemon Law for Emergency Vehicles |
| 4/21/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Transportation, if favorable, Judiciary 1, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0652 | Oppose | John Szoka | NC Consumer Fireworks Safety Act |
| 4/26/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Insurance, if favorable, Finance, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0661 | Support | Timothy Moffitt | CC Fire Training/15 Yrs Old |
| 4/26/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Education – Community Colleges, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0666 | Support | Ray Pickett | Up Volunteer Firefighters’ Retirement Benefit |
| 4/22/2021 – House – Filed | |||
| S 0004 | Support | Jim Burgin | Provides equal tax benefits for State and Local Government Employees |
| 1/28/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0005 | Monitor | Jim Burgin | Licensing Certain Fire Safety Equip. Work |
| 1/28/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0020 | Support | Jim Burgin | Hands Free NC |
| 1/28/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0030 | Monitor | Todd Johnson | Adds rescue and EMS to reduced Lifetime Hinting Licenses. |
| 2/2/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0040 | Oppose | Vickie Sawyer | Increases the use of consumer fireworks and moves the age for pruchase from 16 to 18. |
| 2/2/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0062 | Support | Warren Daniel | Creates a Fellow program in the Community College System, creates a tax property exemption for volunteer firefighters, and increases the Fire and Rescue Pension |
| 2/9/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0102 | Monitor | Warren Daniel | REACT/Plates/Siren |
| 2/17/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0134 | Monitor | Jim Perry | Similar to HB 48 allowing EMS personnel to carry weapons on Law Enforcement support calls. |
| 2/24/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0238 | Monitor | Todd Johnson | Life & Property Protection Act |
| 3/11/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0273 | Monitor | Natasha Marcus | Charlotte Firefighters’ Retirement System Act |
| 3/11/2021 – Senate – Filed | |||
| S 0290 | Monitor | Danny Britt | Fire Depts/Prohibit Certain Crimes |
| 3/15/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0308 | Monitor | Todd Johnson | Prohibits charging an additional inspection fees if a new code violations are found in folow-up inspections. |
| 4/8/2021 – House – Ref To Com On Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| S 0320 | Monitor | Wiley Nickel | Increases unemployment insurance the the length of time. |
| 3/18/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0327 | Support | Michael Lee | Requires all fire departments and FM offices to report and AFFF Foams in stock, and that need to be disposed of, and any uses during the year. The OFSM shall coordinate this reporting |
| 3/23/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0329 | Monitor | Steve Jarvis | Eliminate architectural seal requirements for certain commercial buildings and agricultural buildings. |
| 4/14/2021 – Senate – Re-ref to Commerce and Insurance. If fav, re-ref to Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0374 | Support | Steve Jarvis | Auth. Use of Blue Lights on Fire Apparatus |
| 4/26/2021 – Senate – Re-ref to State and Local Government. If fav, re-ref to Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0430 | Monitor | Kirk deViere | Regional Fire Training Center Funds |
| 4/7/2021 – Senate – Re-ref to Appropriations/Base Budget. If fav, re-ref to Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0440 | Monitor | Donald Davis | Nonprofit Fundraising Sales Tax Exemption |
| 4/1/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0472 | Support | Todd Johnson | Expand Occup. Cancer Benefits/Firefighters |
| 4/5/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0478 | Monitor | Steve Jarvis | 2021 Building Code and Dev. Reg. Reform |
| 4/5/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0652 | Monitor | Kirk deViere | Expand Fire Grant Fund |
| 4/7/2021 – Senate – Re-ref to Appropriations/Base Budget. If fav, re-ref to Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0683 | Monitor | Jim Perry | Prehospital Stroke Protocols/EMS Personnel |
| 4/8/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
2021 legislative Session Update #18
Legislative Day is scheduled for May 5th, Please mark your calendars for attendance. We will be meeting at 8:00 AM in the Insurance Building (Albermarle Building) which is the offices of OSFM, at the corner of Lane Street and Salisbury, right across the street from the Legislative Office Building. There is a visitor parking lot directly beside the building. We will prepare handouts and provide everyone copies.
Please plan to attend.
This year continues to be an active year for bills in the General Assembly. HB 661 was introduced to allow 15 year olds to do fire training at the Community Colleges, which will help with Junior Firefighter Programs. HB 666 was introduced to increase the Fire and Rescue Pension, and HB 652 was introduced to expand the use of Consumer Fireworks.
Please take a look at the summary included with each bill we are tracking on the list and evaluate its effect on your department.
The report below shows the bills we are tracking thus far, and the list will be updated as more are introduced. We’ll continue to monitor the status of each.
Each bill is marked with the status the NCSFA/NCAFC/PFFPNC Joint Legislative Committee has established, or simply Monitor for those bills related to fire, rescue, or safety which were introduced that the Committee has not discussed. Priority designation means the bill was listed as a priority by the Committee, Support indicates those that are not our Priority but the Committee agreed to support, and any that may be listed as Oppose would be those the Committee agreed to oppose.
Legislative Day is scheduled for May 5th, Please mark your calendars for attendance. We will be meeting at 8:00 AM in the Insurance Building (Albermarle Building) which is the offices of OSFM, at the corner of Lane Street and Salisbury, right across the street from the Legislative Office Building. There is a visitor parking lot directly beside the building. We will prepare handouts and provide everyone copies
More information will be coming in the near future on the specifics. Please plan to attend.
Tim Bradley, Executive Director
Quentin Cash, Legislative Committee Chairperson
Debbie Clary, Lobbyist
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.
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 0013 | Priority | Robert Davis | Provides Search and Rescue Funds For Regional Teams to DPS |
| 1/28/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Appropriations, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0025 | Monitor | James Clampitt | Impaired Driving Law Revisions |
| 2/1/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Judiciary 2, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0036 | Support | Kelly Hastings | Provides penalties for shooting into or pointing a laser at emergency vehicles |
| 3/29/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| H 0048 | Monitor | Harry Warren | Allows EMS personnel trained to do so to carry weapons during SWAT or similar law enforcement actions if the are embedded in the team. |
| 3/11/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| H 0052 | Support | George Cleveland | Similar to SB 4 and provides for equal treatment of government retirees on tax exemptions. |
| 2/4/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Finance, if favorable, State Personnel, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0075 | Monitor | George Cleveland | Gov’t Retirees Tax Deduction |
| 2/15/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Finance, if favorable, State Personnel, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0110 | Monitor | Bobby Hanig | Increase Building Permit Exemption Threshold |
| 3/25/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| H 0119 | Monitor | John Bradford | Property Tax Relief for COVID Affected Bus |
| 2/23/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Finance, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0134 | Monitor | Jeffrey McNeely | Second Amendment Protection Act. Allows guns on school property when used as a church. |
| 3/11/2021 – House – Passed 3rd Reading | |||
| H 0198 | Monitor | Jeffrey McNeely | Allows certain exceptions to open burning law restrictions, and changes overtime pay requirements for forestry personnel on wildland fires. |
| 4/22/2021 – House – Passed 3rd Reading | |||
| H 0203 | Monitor | John Faircloth | Extends deadline for certification of Telecommunicators |
| 3/31/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| H 0213 | Support | Patricia Hurley | Allows use of electronic devices with GPS such as phones to be used in search situations. |
| 4/21/2021 – House – Re-ref Com On Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0255 | Monitor | Charles Graham | Funds/New Pembroke Ladder Fire Truck |
| 3/11/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Appropriations, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0291 | Oppose | Jeff Zenger | Bldg. Plan Approval – Certain Commercial Prop |
| 4/22/2021 – House – Re-ref Com On Local Government – Land Use, Planning and Development | |||
| H 0315 | Monitor | Allen McNeill | Makes various changes to the Arson laws, including adding NCDOI to investigations and prohibits fire departments from allowing new members volunteer or career with a criminal history of arson or unlawful burning, and requires background checks. |
| 4/22/2021 – House – Passed 3rd Reading | |||
| H 0342 | Monitor | Deb Butler | This bill requires new residential construction in one and two story single family dwellings to include an electrical circuit for vehicle charging. to |
| 3/23/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Local Government – Land Use, Planning and Development, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0355 | Support | Robert Davis | Requires all fire departments and FM offices to report and AFFF Foams in stock, and that need to be disposed of, and any uses during the year. The OFSM shall coordinate this reporting |
| 4/14/2021 – House – Serial Referral To Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House Added | |||
| H 0356 | Monitor | Destin Hall | Includes Speaker Appointment to the 911 Board representing the fire service. |
| 3/31/2021 – Ch. SL 2021-6 | |||
| H 0366 | Monitor | Lawrence Yarborough | Regulatory Reform Act of 2021 |
| 4/22/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| H 0404 | Monitor | Walter Zachary | Modifies immunity for 911 dispatchers. |
| 3/25/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Judiciary 2, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0432 | Support | Kelly Hastings | NC Assoc. of Fire Chiefs Special Reg. Plate |
| 3/30/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Transportation, if favorable, Finance, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0448 | Support | Larry Potts | Auth. Use of Blue Lights on Fire Apparatus |
| 3/31/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Judiciary 2, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0492 | Support | Donna White | WC/Psych. Trauma-Related Injuries |
| 4/8/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Health, if favorable, Judiciary 1, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0501 | Support | Mary Harrison | PFAS Manufacture/Use/Sale Ban |
| 4/12/2021 – House – Ref To Com On Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0502 | Support | Mary Harrison | PFAS Contamination Mitigation Measures |
| 4/12/2021 – House – Ref To Com On Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0503 | Support | Mary Harrison | PFAS Studies |
| 4/12/2021 – House – Ref To Com On Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0535 | Priority | Destin Hall | Firefighters Fighting Cancer Act of 2021 |
| 4/13/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Health, if favorable, Finance, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0575 | Support | Keith Kidwell | Volunteer Rescue Worker Tax Credit |
| 4/19/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Finance, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0614 | Monitor | Jonathan Hardister | Lemon Law for Emergency Vehicles |
| 4/21/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Transportation, if favorable, Judiciary 1, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0652 | Oppose | John Szoka | NC Consumer Fireworks Safety Act |
| 4/22/2021 – House – Filed | |||
| H 0661 | Support | Timothy Moffitt | CC Fire Training/15 Yrs Old |
| 4/22/2021 – House – Filed | |||
| H 0666 | Support | Ray Pickett | Up Volunteer Firefighters’ Retirement Benefit |
| 4/22/2021 – House – Filed | |||
| S 0004 | Support | Jim Burgin | Provides equal tax benefits for State and Local Government Employees |
| 1/28/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0005 | Monitor | Jim Burgin | Licensing Certain Fire Safety Equip. Work |
| 1/28/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0020 | Support | Jim Burgin | Hands Free NC |
| 1/28/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0030 | Monitor | Todd Johnson | Adds rescue and EMS to reduced Lifetime Hinting Licenses. |
| 2/2/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0040 | Oppose | Vickie Sawyer | Increases the use of consumer fireworks and moves the age for pruchase from 16 to 18. |
| 2/2/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0062 | Support | Warren Daniel | Creates a Fellow program in the Community College System, creates a tax property exemption for volunteer firefighters, and increases the Fire and Rescue Pension |
| 2/9/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0102 | Monitor | Warren Daniel | REACT/Plates/Siren |
| 2/17/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0134 | Monitor | Jim Perry | Similar to HB 48 allowing EMS personnel to carry weapons on Law Enforcement support calls. |
| 2/24/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0238 | Monitor | Todd Johnson | Life & Property Protection Act |
| 3/11/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0273 | Monitor | Natasha Marcus | Charlotte Firefighters’ Retirement System Act |
| 3/11/2021 – Senate – Filed | |||
| S 0290 | Monitor | Danny Britt | Fire Depts/Prohibit Certain Crimes |
| 3/15/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0308 | Monitor | Todd Johnson | Prohibits charging an additional inspection fees if a new code violations are found in folow-up inspections. |
| 4/8/2021 – House – Ref To Com On Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| S 0320 | Monitor | Wiley Nickel | Increases unemployment insurance the the length of time. |
| 3/18/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0327 | Support | Michael Lee | Requires all fire departments and FM offices to report and AFFF Foams in stock, and that need to be disposed of, and any uses during the year. The OFSM shall coordinate this reporting |
| 3/23/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0329 | Monitor | Steve Jarvis | Eliminate architectural seal requirements for certain commercial buildings and agricultural buildings. |
| 4/14/2021 – Senate – Re-ref to Commerce and Insurance. If fav, re-ref to Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0374 | Support | Steve Jarvis | Auth. Use of Blue Lights on Fire Apparatus |
| 3/30/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0430 | Monitor | Kirk deViere | Regional Fire Training Center Funds |
| 4/7/2021 – Senate – Re-ref to Appropriations/Base Budget. If fav, re-ref to Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0440 | Monitor | Donald Davis | Nonprofit Fundraising Sales Tax Exemption |
| 4/1/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0472 | Support | Todd Johnson | Expand Occup. Cancer Benefits/Firefighters |
| 4/5/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0478 | Monitor | Steve Jarvis | 2021 Building Code and Dev. Reg. Reform |
| 4/5/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0652 | Monitor | Kirk deViere | Expand Fire Grant Fund |
| 4/7/2021 – Senate – Re-ref to Appropriations/Base Budget. If fav, re-ref to Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0683 | Monitor | Jim Perry | Prehospital Stroke Protocols/EMS Personnel |
| 4/8/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
2021 legislative Session Update #17
Legislative Day is scheduled for May 5th, Please mark your calendars for attendance. We will be meeting at 8:00 AM in the Insurance Building (Albermarle Building) which is the offices of OSFM, at the corner of Lane Street and Salisbury, right across the street from the Legislative Office Building. There is a visitor parking lot directly beside the building. We will prepare handouts and provide everyone copies More information will be coming in the near future on the specifics. Please plan to attend. This year continues to be an active year for bills in the General Assembly. Please take a look at the summary included with each bill we are tracking on the list and evaluate its effect on your department.
The report below shows the bills we are tracking thus far, and the list will be updated as more are introduced. We’ll continue to Monitor the status of each. Each bill is marked with the status the NCSFA/NCAFC/PFFPNC Joint Legislative Committee has established, or simply Monitor for those bills related to fire, rescue, or safety which were introduced that the Committee has not discussed. Priority designation means the bill was listed as a Priority by the Committee, Support indicates those that are not our Priority but the Committee agreed to Support, and any that may be listed as Oppose would be those the Committee agreed to Oppose.
Tim Bradley, Executive Director Quentin Cash, Legislative Committee Chairperson Debbie Clary, Lobbyist 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, NCAFC, and PFFPNC Executive Boards to address legislative issues that impact the Fire Service of North Carolina. The Committee Members are:
Quentin Cash, NCSFA Chairperson Chris Davis, NCSFA Richard Pulley, NCSFA Scott Rogers, NCSFA Tim Bradley, NCSFA Staff Ed Brinson, NCSFA Staff Debbie Clary, NCSFA Lobbyist Chris Langham, NCAFC Kevin Gordon, NCAFC Buddy Martinette, NCAFC Dolly Hulin, NCAFC Donnie Hall, NCAFC Wes Hutchins, NCAFC Staff Jake Whisnant, NCAFC Staff Scott Mullins, PFFPNC Josh Smith, PFFPNC David Pollard, PFFPNC Bob Bobzien, PFFPNC Brian Lewis, PFFPNC Lobbyist
For additional information contact: Tim Bradley, Executive Director
Quentin Cash, Chairperson
Debbie Clary, Governmental Affairs
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2021 legislative Session Update #16
This year continues to be an active year for bills in the General Assembly. HB 575 was just introduced in the House giving tax credits for volunteer fire and rescue personnel.
The Legislative Committee will be following this and other bills as they progress.
Please take a look at the summary included with each bill on the list and evaluate its effect on your department.
The report below shows the bills we are tracking thus far, and the list will be updated as more are introduced. We’ll continue to monitor the status of each.
Each bill is marked with the status the NCSFA/NCAFC/PFFPNC Joint Legislative Committee has established, or simply Monitor for those bills related to fire, rescue, or safety which were introduced that the Committee has not discussed. Priority designation means the bill was listed as a priority by the Committee, Support indicates those that are not our Priority but the Committee agreed to support, and any that may be listed as Oppose would be those the Committee agreed to oppose.
Legislative Day is scheduled for May 5th, Please mark your calendars for attendance. We will be meeting at 8:00 AM in the Insurance Building (Albermarle Building) which is the offices of OSFM, at the corner of Lane Street and Salisbury, right across the street from the Legislative Office Building. There is a visitor parking lot directly beside the building. We will prepare handouts and provide everyone copies
More information will be coming in the near future on the specifics. Please plan to attend.
Tim Bradley, Executive Director
Quentin Cash, Legislative Committee Chairperson
Debbie Clary, Lobbyist
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.
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 0013 | Priority | Robert Davis | Provides Search and Rescue Funds For Regional Teams to DPS |
| 1/28/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Appropriations, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0025 | Monitor | James Clampitt | Impaired Driving Law Revisions |
| 2/1/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Judiciary 2, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0036 | Support | Kelly Hastings | Provides penalties for shooting into or pointing a laser at emergency vehicles |
| 3/29/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| H 0048 | Monitor | Harry Warren | Allows EMS personnel trained to do so to carry weapons during SWAT or similar law enforcement actions if the are embedded in the team. |
| 3/11/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| H 0052 | Support | George Cleveland | Similar to SB 4 and provides for equal treatment of government retirees on tax exemptions. |
| 2/4/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Finance, if favorable, State Personnel, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0075 | Monitor | George Cleveland | Gov’t Retirees Tax Deduction |
| 2/15/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Finance, if favorable, State Personnel, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0110 | Monitor | Bobby Hanig | Increase Building Permit Exemption Threshold |
| 3/25/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| H 0119 | Monitor | John Bradford | Property Tax Relief for COVID Affected Bus |
| 2/23/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Finance, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0134 | Monitor | Jeffrey McNeely | Second Amendment Protection Act. Allows guns on school property when used as a church. |
| 3/11/2021 – House – Passed 3rd Reading | |||
| H 0198 | Monitor | Jeffrey McNeely | Allows certain exceptions to open burning law restrictions, and changes overtime pay requirements for forestry personnel on wildland fires. |
| 4/15/2021 – House – Re-ref Com On Agriculture | |||
| H 0203 | Monitor | John Faircloth | Extends deadline for certification of Telecommunicators |
| 3/31/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| H 0213 | Monitor | Patricia Hurley | Allows use of electronic devices with GPS such as phones to be used in search situations. |
| 3/4/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Judiciary 3, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0255 | Monitor | Charles Graham | Funds/New Pembroke Ladder Fire Truck |
| 3/11/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Appropriations, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0291 | Oppose | Jeff Zenger | Bldg. Plan Approval – Certain Commercial Prop |
| 3/15/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Regulatory Reform, if favorable, Local Government – Land Use, Planning and Development, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0315 | Monitor | Allen McNeill | Makes various changes to the Arson laws, including adding NCDOI to investigations and prohibits fire departments from allowing new members volunteer or career with a criminal history of arson or unlawful burning, and requires background checks. |
| 3/17/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Judiciary 3, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0342 | Monitor | Deb Butler | This bill requires new residential construction in one and two story single family dwellings to include an electrical circuit for vehicle charging. to |
| 3/23/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Local Government – Land Use, Planning and Development, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0355 | Monitor | Robert Davis | Requires all fire departments and FM offices to report and AFFF Foams in stock, and that need to be disposed of, and any uses during the year. The OFSM shall coordinate this reporting |
| 4/14/2021 – House – Serial Referral To Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House Added | |||
| H 0356 | Monitor | Destin Hall | Includes Speaker Appointment to the 911 Board representing the fire service. |
| 3/31/2021 – Ch. SL 2021-6 | |||
| H 0404 | Monitor | Walter Zachary | Modifies immunity for 911 dispatchers. |
| 3/25/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Judiciary 2, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0432 | Support | Kelly Hastings | NC Assoc. of Fire Chiefs Special Reg. Plate |
| 3/30/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Transportation, if favorable, Finance, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0448 | Support | Larry Potts | Auth. Use of Blue Lights on Fire Apparatus |
| 3/31/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Judiciary 2, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0492 | Support | Donna White | WC/Psych. Trauma-Related Injuries |
| 4/8/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Health, if favorable, Judiciary 1, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0501 | Monitor | Mary Harrison | PFAS Manufacture/Use/Sale Ban |
| 4/12/2021 – House – Ref To Com On Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0502 | Monitor | Mary Harrison | PFAS Contamination Mitigation Measures |
| 4/12/2021 – House – Ref To Com On Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0503 | Monitor | Mary Harrison | PFAS Studies |
| 4/12/2021 – House – Ref To Com On Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0535 | Priority | Destin Hall | Firefighters Fighting Cancer Act of 2021 |
| 4/13/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Health, if favorable, Finance, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0575 | Support | Keith Kidwell | Volunteer Rescue Worker Tax Credit |
| 4/14/2021 – House – Filed | |||
| S 0004 | Support | Jim Burgin | Provides equal tax benefits for State and Local Government Employees |
| 1/28/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0005 | Monitor | Jim Burgin | Licensing Certain Fire Safety Equip. Work |
| 1/28/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0020 | Monitor | Jim Burgin | Hands Free NC |
| 1/28/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0030 | Monitor | Todd Johnson | Adds rescue and EMS to reduced Lifetime Hinting Licenses. |
| 2/2/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0040 | Oppose | Vickie Sawyer | Increases the use of consumer fireworks and moves the age for pruchase from 16 to 18. |
| 2/2/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0062 | Support | Warren Daniel | Creates a Fellow program in the Community College System, creates a tax property exemption for volunteer firefighters, and increases the Fire and Rescue Pension |
| 2/9/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0102 | Monitor | Warren Daniel | REACT/Plates/Siren |
| 2/17/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0134 | Monitor | Jim Perry | Similar to HB 48 allowing EMS personnel to carry weapons on Law Enforcement support calls. |
| 2/24/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0238 | Monitor | Todd Johnson | Life & Property Protection Act |
| 3/11/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0273 | Monitor | Natasha Marcus | Charlotte Firefighters’ Retirement System Act |
| 3/11/2021 – Senate – Filed | |||
| S 0290 | Monitor | Danny Britt | Fire Depts/Prohibit Certain Crimes |
| 3/15/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0308 | Monitor | Todd Johnson | Prohibits charging an additional inspection fees if a new code violations are found in folow-up inspections. |
| 4/8/2021 – House – Ref To Com On Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| S 0320 | Monitor | Wiley Nickel | Increases unemployment insurance the the length of time. |
| 3/18/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0327 | Monitor | Michael Lee | Requires all fire departments and FM offices to report and AFFF Foams in stock, and that need to be disposed of, and any uses during the year. The OFSM shall coordinate this reporting |
| 3/23/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0329 | Monitor | Steve Jarvis | Eliminate architectural seal requirements for certain commercial buildings and agricultural buildings. |
| 4/14/2021 – Senate – Re-ref to Commerce and Insurance. If fav, re-ref to Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0374 | Support | Steve Jarvis | Auth. Use of Blue Lights on Fire Apparatus |
| 3/30/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0430 | Monitor | Kirk deViere | Regional Fire Training Center Funds |
| 4/7/2021 – Senate – Re-ref to Appropriations/Base Budget. If fav, re-ref to Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0440 | Monitor | Donald Davis | Nonprofit Fundraising Sales Tax Exemption |
| 4/1/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0472 | Support | Todd Johnson | Expand Occup. Cancer Benefits/Firefighters |
| 4/5/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0478 | Monitor | Steve Jarvis | 2021 Building Code and Dev. Reg. Reform |
| 4/5/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0652 | Monitor | Kirk deViere | Expand Fire Grant Fund |
| 4/7/2021 – Senate – Re-ref to Appropriations/Base Budget. If fav, re-ref to Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0683 | Monitor | Jim Perry | Prehospital Stroke Protocols/EMS Personnel |
| 4/8/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
2021 legislative Session Update #15
HB 535: Firefighter Fighting Cancer Introduced in the House
For over three years the Joint Legislative Committee of the Fire Service has promoted the idea of a Cancer Insurance Bill for Firefighters with Cancer, in lieu of a Presumptive Cancer Bill affecting Workers Comp which has been and would be very difficult to get passed. States like Florida, Georgia, and recently SC have passed similar Cancer Insurance legislation. Over the winter break between Legislative sessions, the NCSFA worked with the League of Municipalities and an Insurance Consultant to draft language for a Cancer Insurance Bill, as well as a recommendation for a funding source. A similar draft to that language was introduced today in HB 535 by Representative Destin Hall and Representative Jason Saine in the House, moving us one step closer to gaining financial protection for firefighters who develop Cancer. Although there are still some funding issues to be tweaked in the language, we feel confident we can move this bill forward with the support of the fire service. Call your Representative today in the House and ask them to support HB 535 with funding changes proposed by the NCSFA.
The Legislative Committee will be following this and other bills as they progress.
Please take a look at the summary included with each bill on the list and evaluate its effect on your department.
The report below shows the bills we are tracking thus far, and the list will be updated as more are introduced. We’ll continue to monitor the status of each.
Each bill is marked with the status the NCSFA/NCAFC/PFFPNC Joint Legislative Committee has established, or simply Monitor for those bills related to fire, rescue, or safety which were introduced that the Committee has not discussed. Priority designation means the bill was listed as a priority by the Committee, Support indicates those that are not our Priority but the Committee agreed to support, and any that may be listed as Oppose would be those the Committee agreed to oppose.
Legislative Day is scheduled for May 5th, Please mark your calendars for attendance. We will be meeting at 8:00 AM in the Insurance Building (Albermarle Building) which is the offices of OSFM, at the corner of Lane Street and Salisbury, right across the street from the Legislative Office Building. There is a visitor parking lot directly beside the building. We will prepare handouts and provide everyone copies
More information will be coming in the near future on the specifics. Please plan to attend.
Tim Bradley, Executive Director
Quentin Cash, Legislative Committee Chairperson
Debbie Clary, Lobbyist
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.
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 0013 | Priority | Robert Davis | Provides Search and Rescue Funds For Regional Teams to DPS |
| 1/28/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Appropriations, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0025 | Monitor | James Clampitt | Impaired Driving Law Revisions |
| 2/1/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Judiciary 2, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0036 | Support | Kelly Hastings | Provides penalties for shooting into or pointing a laser at emergency vehicles |
| 3/29/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| H 0048 | Monitor | Harry Warren | Allows EMS personnel trained to do so to carry weapons during SWAT or similar law enforcement actions if the are embedded in the team. |
| 3/11/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| H 0052 | Support | George Cleveland | Similar to SB 4 and provides for equal treatment of government retirees on tax exemptions. |
| 2/4/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Finance, if favorable, State Personnel, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0075 | Monitor | George Cleveland | Gov’t Retirees Tax Deduction |
| 2/15/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Finance, if favorable, State Personnel, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0110 | Monitor | Bobby Hanig | Increase Building Permit Exemption Threshold |
| 3/25/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| H 0119 | Monitor | John Bradford | Property Tax Relief for COVID Affected Bus |
| 2/23/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Finance, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0134 | Monitor | Jeffrey McNeely | Second Amendment Protection Act. Allows guns on school property when used as a church. |
| 3/11/2021 – House – Passed 3rd Reading | |||
| H 0198 | Monitor | Jeffrey McNeely | Allows certain exceptions to open burning law restrictions, and changes overtime pay requirements for forestry personnel on wildland fires. |
| 3/10/2021 – House – Re-ref Com On Judiciary 2 | |||
| H 0203 | Monitor | John Faircloth | Extends deadline for certification of Telecommunicators |
| 3/31/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| H 0213 | Monitor | Patricia Hurley | Allows use of electronic devices with GPS such as phones to be used in search situations. |
| 3/4/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Judiciary 3, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0255 | Monitor | Charles Graham | Funds/New Pembroke Ladder Fire Truck |
| 3/11/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Appropriations, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0291 | Oppose | Jeff Zenger | Bldg. Plan Approval – Certain Commercial Prop |
| 3/15/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Regulatory Reform, if favorable, Local Government – Land Use, Planning and Development, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0315 | Monitor | Allen McNeill | Makes various changes to the Arson laws, including adding NCDOI to investigations and prohibits fire departments from allowing new members volunteer or career with a criminal history of arson or unlawful burning, and requires background checks. |
| 3/17/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Judiciary 3, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0342 | Monitor | Deb Butler | This bill requires new residential construction in one and two story single family dwellings to include an electrical circuit for vehicle charging. to |
| 3/23/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Local Government – Land Use, Planning and Development, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0355 | Monitor | Robert Davis | Requires all fire departments and FM offices to report and AFFF Foams in stock, and that need to be disposed of, and any uses during the year. The OFSM shall coordinate this reporting |
| 3/23/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on State Government, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0356 | Monitor | Destin Hall | Includes Speaker Appointment to the 911 Board representing the fire service. |
| 3/31/2021 – Ch. SL 2021-6 | |||
| H 0404 | Monitor | Walter Zachary | Modifies immunity for 911 dispatchers. |
| 3/25/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Judiciary 2, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0432 | Support | Kelly Hastings | NC Assoc. of Fire Chiefs Special Reg. Plate |
| 3/30/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Transportation, if favorable, Finance, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0448 | Support | Larry Potts | Auth. Use of Blue Lights on Fire Apparatus |
| 3/31/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Judiciary 2, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0492 | Support | Donna White | WC/Psych. Trauma-Related Injuries |
| 4/8/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Health, if favorable, Judiciary 1, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0501 | Monitor | Mary Harrison | PFAS Manufacture/Use/Sale Ban |
| 4/12/2021 – House – Ref To Com On Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0502 | Monitor | Mary Harrison | PFAS Contamination Mitigation Measures |
| 4/12/2021 – House – Ref To Com On Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0503 | Monitor | Mary Harrison | PFAS Studies |
| 4/12/2021 – House – Ref To Com On Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0535 | Priority | Destin Hall | Firefighters Fighting Cancer Act of 2021 |
| 4/13/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Health, if favorable, Finance, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| S 0004 | Support | Jim Burgin | Provides equal tax benefits for State and Local Government Employees |
| 1/28/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0005 | Monitor | Jim Burgin | Licensing Certain Fire Safety Equip. Work |
| 1/28/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0020 | Monitor | Jim Burgin | Hands Free NC |
| 1/28/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0030 | Monitor | Todd Johnson | Adds rescue and EMS to reduced Lifetime Hinting Licenses. |
| 2/2/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0040 | Oppose | Vickie Sawyer | Increases the use of consumer fireworks and moves the age for pruchase from 16 to 18. |
| 2/2/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0062 | Support | Warren Daniel | Creates a Fellow program in the Community College System, creates a tax property exemption for volunteer firefighters, and increases the Fire and Rescue Pension |
| 2/9/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0102 | Monitor | Warren Daniel | REACT/Plates/Siren |
| 2/17/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0134 | Monitor | Jim Perry | Similar to HB 48 allowing EMS personnel to carry weapons on Law Enforcement support calls. |
| 2/24/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0238 | Monitor | Todd Johnson | Life & Property Protection Act |
| 3/11/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0273 | Monitor | Natasha Marcus | Charlotte Firefighters’ Retirement System Act |
| 3/11/2021 – Senate – Filed | |||
| S 0290 | Monitor | Danny Britt | Fire Depts/Prohibit Certain Crimes |
| 3/15/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0308 | Monitor | Todd Johnson | Prohibits charging an additional inspection fees if a new code violations are found in folow-up inspections. |
| 4/8/2021 – House – Ref To Com On Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| S 0320 | Monitor | Wiley Nickel | Increases unemployment insurance the the length of time. |
| 3/18/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0327 | Monitor | Michael Lee | Requires all fire departments and FM offices to report and AFFF Foams in stock, and that need to be disposed of, and any uses during the year. The OFSM shall coordinate this reporting |
| 3/23/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0329 | Monitor | Steve Jarvis | Eliminate architectural seal requirements for certain commercial buildings and agricultural buildings. |
| 3/23/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0374 | Support | Steve Jarvis | Auth. Use of Blue Lights on Fire Apparatus |
| 3/30/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0430 | Monitor | Kirk deViere | Regional Fire Training Center Funds |
| 4/7/2021 – Senate – Re-ref to Appropriations/Base Budget. If fav, re-ref to Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0440 | Monitor | Donald Davis | Nonprofit Fundraising Sales Tax Exemption |
| 4/1/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0472 | Support | Todd Johnson | Expand Occup. Cancer Benefits/Firefighters |
| 4/5/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0478 | Monitor | Steve Jarvis | 2021 Building Code and Dev. Reg. Reform |
| 4/5/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0652 | Monitor | Kirk deViere | Expand Fire Grant Fund |
| 4/7/2021 – Senate – Re-ref to Appropriations/Base Budget. If fav, re-ref to Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0683 | Monitor | Jim Perry | Prehospital Stroke Protocols/EMS Personnel |
| 4/8/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
ACTION NEEDED!
THE LEGISLATIVE INITIATIVE TO ALLOW NON-PROFIT FIRE
DEPARTMENTS TO PARTICIPATE IN LOCAL GOVERNMENT RETIREMENT IS BEING
RECONSIDERED IN CONGRESS. CALL OR EMAIL YOUR CONGRESSIONAL REPRESENTATIVE NOW!!
Federal Legislative Update
Last year we were successful in getting language into the Ways and Means Retirement Bill (Bailey Act) that would modify IRS regulations and open the door for North Carolina’s General Assembly to allow career personnel into the Local Government Retirement System. The legislation, which includes 132 pages of retirement changes, was not acted on in the last session of Congress. As such, it will have to be reintroduced this year. Currently Congressman McHenry’s office, as well as Congressman Price’s office are trying to get all NC Congressional Delegates to sign on to this important piece of legislation. It’s important for you to contact your Congressman again, now, and ask them to support this initiative.
If you speak with your Congress member, ask them to support the reintroduction of H.R. 8696, “Securing a Strong Retirement Act of 2020”, and to continue to include Sec 116 “Governmental Pension Plans May Include Certain Firefighters, EMT’s, and Paramedics”. Section 116 derived from our specific bill introduced last year HR 8538.
Background
In early 2018 Past President Jeff Cash from Cherryville set up a meeting with Congressman Patrick McHenry to discuss the issue of non-profits being allowed to join LGERS and the need for federal intervention. The meeting was held in Hickory and attended by members of the NCSFA and NCAFC’s Board and staff. The State law that had initially allowed non-profit career firefighters in LGERS was overturned in the early 2000’s by an IRS opinion letter indicating it would change the status of LGERS, possibly causing it to be taxed differently. At that point the NC law was revoked. For the past two years we have worked closely with Congressman Holding’s and Congressman McHenry’s Office to get federal legislation introduced. One reason for the delay was trying to get a majority of the Ways and Means Committee to agree to the legislation. Also, when the House changed to Democratic in 2018, we had to realign our efforts. There were also issues with the draft legislation. We have been working with McHenry’s and Holdings office hard for the last year, and a few weeks ago we received an indication from Holding’s and McHenry’s office they were ready to move forward with the introduction. The last week before introduction we worked hard to get the remaining members of the NC delegation to sign onto the Bill, and we convinced all but one.
October 6th, 2020, the bill was introduced in the House Of Representatives. HR 8538 went to the Ways and Means Committee, which included it in their major retirement package. This is the first and critical step to removing the Federal IRS restriction that prohibited NC from moving forward. If it had passed in Congress it would have allowed the NC General Assembly the opportunity to re-instate the law allowing participation. The final decision for participation will be getting legislation passed in NC, and the fire department itself agreeing to participate.
We need to get that same piece of legislation reintroduced this year. Now is the time.
IT IS IMPORTANT TO KNOW THAT IF IT PASSES AT THE FEDERAL LEVEL, WE WILL STILL HAVE TO GET IT INTRODUCED AND PASSED AT THE STATE LEVEL.
Tim Bradley
Executive Director
2021 legislative Session Update #14
Legislative Day is scheduled for May 5th, Please mark your calendars for attendance. We will be meeting at 8:00 AM in the Insurance Building (Albermarle Building) which is the offices of OSFM, at the corner of Lane Street and Salisbury, right across the street from the Legislative Office Building. There is a visitor parking lot directly beside the building. We will prepare handouts and provide everyone copies. More information will be coming in the near future on the specifics. Please plan to attend.
Workers Comp traumatic and Trauma Related Injuries Bill Introduced in the House for First Responders (HB 492)
House Bill 492 was introduced in the House yesterday which provides Workers Compensation Coverage for firefighters, law enforcement, and 911 workers affected by Psychological and Trauma related injuries without the occurrence of a physical injury. Currently these injuries are covered only in conjunction with a physical injury.
The Legislative Committee will be following this and other bills as they progress.
Please take a look at the summary included with each bill on the list and evaluate its effect on your department.
The report below shows the bills we are tracking thus far, and the list will be updated as more are introduced. We’ll continue to monitor the status of each.
Each bill is marked with the status the NCSFA/NCAFC/PFFPNC Joint Legislative Committee has established, or simply Monitor for those bills related to fire, rescue, or safety which were introduced that the Committee has not discussed. Priority designation means the bill was listed as a priority by the Committee, Support indicates those that are not our Priority but the Committee agreed to support, and any that may be listed as Oppose would be those the Committee agreed to oppose.
Tim Bradley, Executive Director
Quentin Cash, Legislative Committee Chairperson
Debbie Clary, Lobbyist
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.
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 0013 | Priority | Robert Davis | Provides Search and Rescue Funds For Regional Teams to DPS |
| 1/28/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Appropriations, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0025 | Monitor | James Clampitt | Impaired Driving Law Revisions |
| 2/1/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Judiciary 2, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0036 | Support | Kelly Hastings | Provides penalties for shooting into or pointing a laser at emergency vehicles |
| 3/29/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| H 0048 | Monitor | Harry Warren | Allows EMS personnel trained to do so to carry weapons during SWAT or similar law enforcement actions if the are embedded in the team. |
| 3/11/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| H 0052 | Support | George Cleveland | Similar to SB 4 and provides for equal treatment of government retirees on tax exemptions. |
| 2/4/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Finance, if favorable, State Personnel, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0075 | Monitor | George Cleveland | Gov’t Retirees Tax Deduction |
| 2/15/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Finance, if favorable, State Personnel, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0110 | Monitor | Bobby Hanig | Increase Building Permit Exemption Threshold |
| 3/25/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| H 0119 | Monitor | John Bradford | Property Tax Relief for COVID Affected Bus |
| 2/23/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Finance, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0134 | Monitor | Jeffrey McNeely | Second Amendment Protection Act. Allows guns on school property when used as a church. |
| 3/11/2021 – House – Passed 3rd Reading | |||
| H 0198 | Monitor | Jeffrey McNeely | Allows certain exceptions to open burning law restrictions, and changes overtime pay requirements for forestry personnel on wildland fires. |
| 3/10/2021 – House – Re-ref Com On Judiciary 2 | |||
| H 0203 | Monitor | John Faircloth | Extends deadline for certification of Telecommunicators |
| 3/31/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| H 0213 | Monitor | Patricia Hurley | Allows use of electronic devices with GPS such as phones to be used in search situations. |
| 3/4/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Judiciary 3, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0255 | Monitor | Charles Graham | Funds/New Pembroke Ladder Fire Truck |
| 3/11/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Appropriations, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0291 | Oppose | Jeff Zenger | Bldg. Plan Approval – Certain Commercial Prop |
| 3/15/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Regulatory Reform, if favorable, Local Government – Land Use, Planning and Development, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0315 | Monitor | Allen McNeill | Makes various changes to the Arson laws, including adding NCDOI to investigations and prohibits fire departments from allowing new members volunteer or career with a criminal history of arson or unlawful burning, and requires background checks. |
| 3/17/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Judiciary 3, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0342 | Monitor | Deb Butler | This bill requires new residential construction in one and two story single family dwellings to include an electrical circuit for vehicle charging. to |
| 3/23/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Local Government – Land Use, Planning and Development, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0355 | Monitor | Robert Davis | Requires all fire departments and FM offices to report and AFFF Foams in stock, and that need to be disposed of, and any uses during the year. The OFSM shall coordinate this reporting |
| 3/23/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on State Government, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0356 | Monitor | Destin Hall | Includes Speaker Appointment to the 911 Board representing the fire service. |
| 3/31/2021 – Ch. SL 2021-6 | |||
| H 0404 | Monitor | Walter Zachary | Modifies immunity for 911 dispatchers. |
| 3/25/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Judiciary 2, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0432 | Support | Kelly Hastings | NC Assoc. of Fire Chiefs Special Reg. Plate |
| 3/30/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Transportation, if favorable, Finance, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0448 | Support | Larry Potts | Auth. Use of Blue Lights on Fire Apparatus |
| 3/31/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Judiciary 2, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0492 | Support | Donna White | WC/Psych. Trauma-Related Injuries |
| 4/5/2021 – House – Filed | |||
| S 0004 | Support | Jim Burgin | Provides equal tax benefits for State and Local Government Employees |
| 1/28/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0005 | Monitor | Jim Burgin | Licensing Certain Fire Safety Equip. Work |
| 1/28/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0020 | Monitor | Jim Burgin | Hands Free NC |
| 1/28/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0030 | Monitor | Todd Johnson | Adds rescue and EMS to reduced Lifetime Hinting Licenses. |
| 2/2/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0040 | Oppose | Vickie Sawyer | Increases the use of consumer fireworks and moves the age for pruchase from 16 to 18. |
| 2/2/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0062 | Support | Warren Daniel | Creates a Fellow program in the Community College System, creates a tax property exemption for volunteer firefighters, and increases the Fire and Rescue Pension |
| 2/9/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0102 | Monitor | Warren Daniel | REACT/Plates/Siren |
| 2/17/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0134 | Monitor | Jim Perry | Similar to HB 48 allowing EMS personnel to carry weapons on Law Enforcement support calls. |
| 2/24/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0238 | Monitor | Todd Johnson | Life & Property Protection Act |
| 3/11/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0273 | Monitor | Natasha Marcus | Charlotte Firefighters’ Retirement System Act |
| 3/11/2021 – Senate – Filed | |||
| S 0290 | Monitor | Danny Britt | Fire Depts/Prohibit Certain Crimes |
| 3/15/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0308 | Monitor | Todd Johnson | Prohibits charging an additional inspection fees if a new code violations are found in folow-up inspections. |
| 4/5/2021 – House – Regular Message Received From Senate | |||
| S 0320 | Monitor | Wiley Nickel | Increases unemployment insurance the the length of time. |
| 3/18/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0327 | Monitor | Michael Lee | Requires all fire departments and FM offices to report and AFFF Foams in stock, and that need to be disposed of, and any uses during the year. The OFSM shall coordinate this reporting |
| 3/23/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0329 | Monitor | Steve Jarvis | Eliminate architectural seal requirements for certain commercial buildings and agricultural buildings. |
| 3/23/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0374 | Support | Steve Jarvis | Auth. Use of Blue Lights on Fire Apparatus |
| 3/30/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0430 | Monitor | Kirk deViere | Regional Fire Training Center Funds |
| 4/1/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0440 | Monitor | Donald Davis | Nonprofit Fundraising Sales Tax Exemption |
| 4/1/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0472 | Support | Todd Johnson | Expand Occup. Cancer Benefits/Firefighters |
| 4/5/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0478 | Monitor | Steve Jarvis | 2021 Building Code and Dev. Reg. Reform |
| 4/5/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
2021 legislative Session Update #12
Legislative Day is scheduled for May 5th, Please mark your calendars for attendance. We will prepare handouts, and although the details are not in place, we’ll provide everyone with a place to meet and pickup copies of the handouts. More information will be coming in the near future on the specifics. Please plan to attend.
Two new bills were added last night. HB 432 creates a special license plate for the NC Association of Fire Chiefs. SB 374 allows blue lights on the rear of fire apparatus. The bill is worded publicly owned fire apparatus, and the blue lights are only visible from the rear of a fire apparatus when the parking brake is engaged and the on-scene lights are activated.
The Legislative Committee will be following these bills as they progress.
Please take a look at the summary included with each bill on the list and evaluate its effect on your department.
The report below shows the bills we are tracking thus far, and the list will be updated as more are introduced. We’ll continue to monitor the status of each.
Each bill is marked with the status the NCSFA/NCAFC/PFFPNC Joint Legislative Committee has established, or simply Monitor for those bills related to fire, rescue, or safety which were introduced that the Committee has not discussed. Priority designation means the bill was listed as a priority by the Committee, Support indicates those that are not our Priority but the Committee agreed to support, and any that may be listed as Oppose would be those the Committee agreed to oppose.
Tim Bradley, Executive Director
Quentin Cash, Legislative Committee Chairperson
Debbie Clary, Lobbyist
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.
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 0013 | Priority | Robert Davis | Provides Search and Rescue Funds For Regional Teams to DPS |
| 1/28/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Appropriations, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0025 | Monitor | James Clampitt | Impaired Driving Law Revisions |
| 2/1/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Judiciary 2, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0036 | Support | Kelly Hastings | Provides penalties for shooting into or pointing a laser at emergency vehicles |
| 3/29/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| H 0048 | Monitor | Harry Warren | Allows EMS personnel trained to do so to carry weapons during SWAT or similar law enforcement actions if the are embedded in the team. |
| 3/11/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| H 0052 | Support | George Cleveland | Similar to SB 4 and provides for equal treatment of government retirees on tax exemptions. |
| 2/4/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Finance, if favorable, State Personnel, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0075 | Monitor | George Cleveland | Gov’t Retirees Tax Deduction |
| 2/15/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Finance, if favorable, State Personnel, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0110 | Monitor | Bobby Hanig | Increase Building Permit Exemption Threshold |
| 3/25/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| H 0119 | Monitor | John Bradford | Property Tax Relief for COVID Affected Bus |
| 2/23/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Finance, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0134 | Monitor | Jeffrey McNeely | Second Amendment Protection Act. Allows guns on school property when used as a church. |
| 3/11/2021 – House – Passed 3rd Reading | |||
| H 0198 | Monitor | Jeffrey McNeely | Allows certain exceptions to open burning law restrictions, and changes overtime pay requirements for forestry personnel on wildland fires. |
| 3/10/2021 – House – Re-ref Com On Judiciary 2 | |||
| H 0203 | Monitor | John Faircloth | Extends deadline for certification of Telecommunicators |
| 3/24/2021 – House – Re-ref Com On Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0213 | Monitor | Patricia Hurley | Allows use of electronic devices with GPS such as phones to be used in search situations. |
| 3/4/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Judiciary 3, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0255 | Monitor | Charles Graham | Funds/New Pembroke Ladder Fire Truck |
| 3/11/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Appropriations, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0291 | Oppose | Jeff Zenger | Bldg. Plan Approval – Certain Commercial Prop |
| 3/15/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Regulatory Reform, if favorable, Local Government – Land Use, Planning and Development, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0315 | Monitor | Allen McNeill | Makes various changes to the Arson laws, including adding NCDOI to investigations and prohibits fire departments from allowing new members volunteer or career with a criminal history of arson or unlawful burning, and requires background checks. |
| 3/17/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Judiciary 3, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0342 | Monitor | Deb Butler | This bill requires new residential construction in one and two story single family dwellings to include an electrical circuit for vehicle charging. to |
| 3/23/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Local Government – Land Use, Planning and Development, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0355 | Monitor | Robert Davis | Requires all fire departments and FM offices to report and AFFF Foams in stock, and that need to be disposed of, and any uses during the year. The OFSM shall coordinate this reporting |
| 3/23/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on State Government, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0356 | Monitor | Destin Hall | Includes Speaker Appointment to the 911 Board representing the fire service. |
| 3/29/2021 – Senate – Reptd Fav | |||
| H 0404 | Monitor | Walter Zachary | Modifies immunity for 911 dispatchers. |
| 3/25/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Judiciary 2, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0432 | Support | Kelly Hastings | NC Assoc. of Fire Chiefs Special Reg. Plate |
| 3/29/2021 – House – Filed | |||
| S 0004 | Support | Jim Burgin | Provides equal tax benefits for State and Local Government Employees |
| 1/28/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0005 | Monitor | Jim Burgin | Licensing Certain Fire Safety Equip. Work |
| 1/28/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0020 | Monitor | Jim Burgin | Hands Free NC |
| 1/28/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0030 | Monitor | Todd Johnson | Adds rescue and EMS to reduced Lifetime Hinting Licenses. |
| 2/2/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0040 | Oppose | Vickie Sawyer | Increases the use of consumer fireworks and moves the age for pruchase from 16 to 18. |
| 2/2/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0062 | Support | Warren Daniel | Creates a Fellow program in the Community College System, creates a tax property exemption for volunteer firefighters, and increases the Fire and Rescue Pension |
| 2/9/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0102 | Monitor | Warren Daniel | REACT/Plates/Siren |
| 2/17/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0134 | Monitor | Jim Perry | Similar to HB 48 allowing EMS personnel to carry weapons on Law Enforcement support calls. |
| 2/24/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0238 | Monitor | Todd Johnson | Life & Property Protection Act |
| 3/11/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0273 | Monitor | Natasha Marcus | Charlotte Firefighters’ Retirement System Act |
| 3/11/2021 – Senate – Filed | |||
| S 0290 | Monitor | Danny Britt | Fire Depts/Prohibit Certain Crimes |
| 3/15/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0308 | Monitor | Todd Johnson | Prohibits charging an additional inspection fees if a new code violations are found in folow-up inspections. |
| 3/18/2021 – Senate – Re-ref to Agriculture, Energy, and Environment. If fav, re-ref to Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0320 | Monitor | Wiley Nickel | Increases unemployment insurance the the length of time. |
| 3/18/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0327 | Monitor | Michael Lee | Requires all fire departments and FM offices to report and AFFF Foams in stock, and that need to be disposed of, and any uses during the year. The OFSM shall coordinate this reporting |
| 3/23/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0329 | Monitor | Steve Jarvis | Eliminate architectural seal requirements for certain commercial buildings and agricultural buildings. |
| 3/23/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0374 | Support | Steve Jarvis | Auth. Use of Blue Lights on Fire Apparatus |
| 3/29/2021 – Senate – Filed | |||
2021 legislative Session Update #11
Legislative Day is scheduled for May 5th, Please mark your calendars for attendance. We will prepare handouts, and although the details are not in place, we’ll provide everyone with a place to meet and pickup copies of the handouts. More information will be coming in the near future on the specifics. Please plan to attend.
This weeks second update adds one bill that affect the 911 Telecommunicator immunity, HB 404 by changing some of the definitions.
The Legislative Committee will be following these bills as they progress.
Please take a look at the summary included with each bill on the list and evaluate its effect on your department.
The report below shows the bills we are tracking thus far, and the list will be updated as more are introduced. We’ll continue to monitor the status of each.
Each bill is marked with the status the NCSFA/NCAFC/PFFPNC Joint Legislative Committee has established, or simply Monitor for those bills related to fire, rescue, or safety which were introduced that the Committee has not discussed. Priority designation means the bill was listed as a priority by the Committee, Support indicates those that are not our Priority but the Committee agreed to support, and any that may be listed as Oppose would be those the Committee agreed to oppose.
Tim Bradley, Executive Director
Quentin Cash, Legislative Committee Chairperson
Debbie Clary, Lobbyist
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.
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 0013 | Priority | Robert Davis | Provides Search and Rescue Funds For Regional Teams to DPS |
| 1/28/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Appropriations, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0025 | Monitor | James Clampitt | Impaired Driving Law Revisions |
| 2/1/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Judiciary 2, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0036 | Support | Kelly Hastings | Provides penalties for shooting into or pointing a laser at emergency vehicles |
| 3/24/2021 – House – Placed On Cal For 03/25/2021 | |||
| H 0048 | Monitor | Harry Warren | Allows EMS personnel trained to do so to carry weapons during SWAT or similar law enforcement actions if the are embedded in the team. |
| 3/11/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| H 0052 | Support | George Cleveland | Similar to SB 4 and provides for equal treatment of government retirees on tax exemptions. |
| 2/4/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Finance, if favorable, State Personnel, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0075 | Monitor | George Cleveland | Gov’t Retirees Tax Deduction |
| 2/15/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Finance, if favorable, State Personnel, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0110 | Monitor | Bobby Hanig | Increase Building Permit Exemption Threshold |
| 3/24/2021 – House – Regular Message Sent To Senate | |||
| H 0119 | Monitor | John Bradford | Property Tax Relief for COVID Affected Bus |
| 2/23/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Finance, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0134 | Monitor | Jeffrey McNeely | Also allows EMS Personnel to carry firearms on calls supporting law enforcement similar to HB 48 and SB 134. |
| 3/11/2021 – House – Passed 3rd Reading | |||
| H 0198 | Monitor | Jeffrey McNeely | Allows certain exceptions to open burning law restrictions, and changes overtime pay requirements for forestry personnel on wildland fires. |
| 3/10/2021 – House – Re-ref Com On Judiciary 2 | |||
| H 0203 | Monitor | John Faircloth | Extends deadline for certification of Telecommunicators |
| 3/4/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Judiciary 2, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0213 | Monitor | Patricia Hurley | Allows use of electronic devices with GPS such as phones to be used in search situations. |
| 3/4/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Judiciary 3, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0255 | Monitor | Charles Graham | Funds/New Pembroke Ladder Fire Truck |
| 3/11/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Appropriations, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0291 | Monitor | Jeff Zenger | Bldg. Plan Approval – Certain Commercial Prop |
| 3/15/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Regulatory Reform, if favorable, Local Government – Land Use, Planning and Development, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0315 | Monitor | Allen McNeill | Makes various changes to the Arson laws, including adding NCDOI to investigations and prohibits fire departments from allowing new members volunteer or career with a criminal history of arson or unlawful burning, and requires background checks. |
| 3/17/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Judiciary 3, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0342 | Monitor | Deb Butler | This bill requires new residential construction in one and two story single family dwellings to include an electrical circuit for vehicle charging. to |
| 3/23/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Local Government – Land Use, Planning and Development, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0355 | Monitor | Robert Davis | Requires all fire departments and FM offices to report and AFFF Foams in stock, and that need to be disposed of, and any uses during the year. The OFSM shall coordinate this reporting |
| 3/23/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on State Government, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0356 | Monitor | Destin Hall | Includes Speaker Appointment to the 911 Board representing the fire service. |
| 3/24/2021 – House – Ordered Engrossed | |||
| H 0404 | Monitor | Walter Zachary | Modifies immunity for 911 dispatchers. |
| 3/24/2021 – House – Filed | |||
| S 0004 | Support | Jim Burgin | Provides equal tax benefits for State and Local Government Employees |
| 1/28/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0005 | Monitor | Jim Burgin | Licensing Certain Fire Safety Equip. Work |
| 1/28/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0020 | Monitor | Jim Burgin | Hands Free NC |
| 1/28/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0030 | Monitor | Todd Johnson | Adds rescue and EMS to reduced Lifetime Hinting Licenses. |
| 2/2/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0040 | Oppose | Vickie Sawyer | Increases the use of consumer fireworks and moves the age for pruchase from 16 to 18. |
| 2/2/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0062 | Support | Warren Daniel | Creates a Fellow program in the Community College System, creates a tax property exemption for volunteer firefighters, and increases the Fire and Rescue Pension |
| 2/9/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0102 | Monitor | Warren Daniel | REACT/Plates/Siren |
| 2/17/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0134 | Monitor | Jim Perry | Similar to HB 48 allowing EMS personnel to carry weapons on Law Enforcement support calls. |
| 2/24/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0238 | Monitor | Todd Johnson | Life & Property Protection Act |
| 3/11/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0273 | Monitor | Natasha Marcus | Charlotte Firefighters’ Retirement System Act |
| 3/11/2021 – Senate – Filed | |||
| S 0290 | Monitor | Danny Britt | Fire Depts/Prohibit Certain Crimes |
| 3/15/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0308 | Monitor | Todd Johnson | Prohibits charging an additional inspection fees if a new code violations are found in folow-up inspections. |
| 3/18/2021 – Senate – Re-ref to Agriculture, Energy, and Environment. If fav, re-ref to Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0320 | Monitor | Wiley Nickel | Increases unemployment insurance the the length of time. |
| 3/18/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0327 | Monitor | Michael Lee | Requires all fire departments and FM offices to report and AFFF Foams in stock, and that need to be disposed of, and any uses during the year. The OFSM shall coordinate this reporting |
| 3/23/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0329 | Monitor | Steve Jarvis | Eliminate architectural seal requirements for certain commercial buildings and agricultural buildings. |
| 3/23/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
2021 legislative Session Update #10
Legislative Day is scheduled for May 5th, Please mark your calendars for attendance. We will prepare handouts, and although the details are not in place, we’ll provide everyone with a place to meet and pickup copies of the handouts. More information will be coming in the near future on the specifics. Please plan to attend.
This weeks update adds a couple of additional bills that affect the fire service, building code, and even unemployment payments.
One particular set of matching bills (HB 355 and SB 327) requires each fire department to report amounts of Class B foam (AFFF) on hand, how much they have that may need to be disposed of, and a summary of how much they use each year and call specifics. The NC OSFM will coordinate, collect, and train departments on this reporting requirement. This is in relation to the foams containing PFA’s and the impact on environment and health of firefighters. The Legislative Committee will be following these bills as they progress.
Please take a look at the summary included with each bill on the list and evaluate its effect on your department.
The report below shows the bills we are tracking thus far, and the list will be updated as more are introduced. We’ll continue to monitor the status of each.
Each bill is marked with the status the NCSFA/NCAFC/PFFPNC Joint Legislative Committee has established, or simply Monitor for those bills related to fire, rescue, or safety which were introduced that the Committee has not discussed. Priority designation means the bill was listed as a priority by the Committee, Support indicates those that are not our Priority but the Committee agreed to support, and any that may be listed as Oppose would be those the Committee agreed to oppose.
Tim Bradley, Executive Director
Quentin Cash, Legislative Committee Chairperson
Debbie Clary, Lobbyist
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, NCAFC, and PFFPNC Executive Boards to address legislative issues that impact the Fire Service of North Carolina. The Committee Members are:
Quentin Cash, NCSFA Chairperson Chris Davis, NCSFA Richard Pulley, NCSFA Scott Rogers, NCSFA Tim Bradley, NCSFA Staff Ed Brinson, NCSFA Staff Debbie Clary, NCSFA Lobbyist Chris Langham, NCAFC Kevin Gordon, NCAFC Buddy Martinette, NCAFC Dolly Hulin, NCAFC Donnie Hall, NCAFC Wes Hutchins, NCAFC Staff Jake Whisnant, NCAFC Staff Scott Mullins, PFFPNC Josh Smith, PFFPNC David Pollard, PFFPNC Bob Bobzien, PFFPNC Brian Lewis, PFFPNC Lobbyist
For additional information contact: Tim Bradley, Executive Director Quentin Cash, Chairperson Debbie Clary, Governmental Affairs |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2021 legislative Session Update #9
Legislative Day is scheduled for May 5th, Please mark your calendars for attendance.
This weeks update adds a couple of additional bills that affect the fire service, inspections and investigations, or individual departments.
One particular bill (HB 315) amends the arson laws and adds NCDOI OSFM to investigations, and requires criminal background checks for career and volunteer applicants. In addition to adding additional items involved with arson penalties, it also will now REQUIRE all applicants of career or volunteer departments to have a background check. Fire Chiefs or Fire Marshals are required to have these background checks conducted. It also allows the results to determine if an applicant is acceptable, lays out certain conditions where exceptions can be made for certain crimes based on age, circumstances, etc., and prohibits membership under any circumstances dealing with felony arson or unlawful burning. It also allows a fire department to dismiss a member or refuse an applicant who is unwilling to have a background check performed. If passed, criminal background checks will be required of all applicants to be firefighters, career or volunteer. The Legislative Committee will be following this bill as it progresses. Another bill (SB 308) prohibits additional inspection charges on residential and commercial on follow-up inspections if additional violations are found checking violations from the previous inspection. Additionally, HB 291 reduces plan review fees for commercial building reviews not completed with 15 days.
Please take a look at the summary included with each bill on the list and evaluate its effect on your department.
The report below shows the bills we are tracking thus far, and the list will be updated as more are introduced. We’ll continue to monitor the status of each.
Each bill is marked with the status the NCSFA/NCAFC/PFFPNC Joint Legislative Committee has established, or simply Monitor for those bills related to fire, rescue, or safety which were introduced that the Committee has not discussed. Priority designation means the bill was listed as a priority by the Committee, Support indicates those that are not our Priority but the Committee agreed to support, and any that may be listed as Oppose would be those the Committee agreed to oppose.
Tim Bradley, Executive Director
Quentin Cash, Legislative Committee Chairperson
Debbie Clary, Lobbyist
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.
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 0013 |
Priority |
Robert Davis |
Provides Search and Rescue Funds For Regional Teams to DPS |
| 1/28/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Appropriations, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0025 | Monitor | James Clampitt | Impaired Driving Law Revisions |
| 2/1/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Judiciary 2, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0036 | Monitor | Kelly Hastings | Provides penalties for shooting into or pointing a laser at emergency vehicles |
| 3/10/2021 – House – Re-ref Com On Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0048 | Monitor | Harry Warren | Allows EMS personnel trained to do so to carry weapons during SWAT or similar law enforcement actions if the are embedded in the team. |
| 3/11/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| H 0052 | Support | George Cleveland | Similar to SB 4 and provides for equal treatment of government retirees on tax exemptions. |
| 2/4/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Finance, if favorable, State Personnel, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0075 | Monitor | George Cleveland | Gov’t Retirees Tax Deduction |
| 2/15/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Finance, if favorable, State Personnel, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0110 | Monitor | Bobby Hanig | Increase Building Permit Exemption Threshold |
| 3/16/2021 – House – Placed On Cal For 03/17/2021 | |||
| H 0119 | Monitor | John Bradford | Property Tax Relief for COVID Affected Bus |
| 2/23/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Finance, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0134 | Monitor | Jeffrey McNeely | Also allows EMS Personnel to carry firearms on calls supporting law enforcement similar to HB 48 and SB 134. |
| 3/11/2021 – House – Passed 3rd Reading | |||
| H 0203 | Monitor | John Faircloth | Extends deadline for certification of Telecommunicators |
| 3/4/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Judiciary 2, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0213 | Monitor | Patricia Hurley | Allows use of electronic devices with GPS such as phones to be used in search situations. |
| 3/4/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Judiciary 3, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0255 | Monitor | Charles Graham | Funds/New Pembroke Ladder Fire Truck |
| 3/11/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Appropriations, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0291 | Monitor | Jeff Zenger | Bldg. Plan Approval – Certain Commercial Prop |
| 3/15/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Regulatory Reform, if favorable, Local Government – Land Use, Planning and Development, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0315 | Monitor | Allen McNeill | Makes various changes to the Arson laws, including adding NCDOI to investigations and prohibits fire departments from allowing new members volunteer or career with a criminal history of arson or unlawful burning, and requires background checks. |
| 3/16/2021 – House – Filed | |||
| S 0004 | Support | Jim Burgin | Provides equal tax benefits for State and Local Government Employees |
| 1/28/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0005 | Monitor | Jim Burgin | Licensing Certain Fire Safety Equip. Work |
| 1/28/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0020 | Monitor | Jim Burgin | Hands Free NC |
| 1/28/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0030 | Monitor | Todd Johnson | Adds rescue and EMS to reduced Lifetime Hinting Licenses. |
| 2/2/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0040 | Oppose | Vickie Sawyer | Increases the use of consumer fireworks and moves the age for pruchase from 16 to 18. |
| 2/2/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0062 | Support | Warren Daniel | Creates a Fellow program in the Community College System, creates a tax property exemption for volunteer firefighters, and increases the Fire and Rescue Pension |
| 2/9/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0102 | Monitor | Warren Daniel | REACT/Plates/Siren |
| 2/17/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0134 | Monitor | Jim Perry | Similar to HB 48 allowing EMS personnel to carry weapons on Law Enforcement support calls. |
| 2/24/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0238 | Monitor | Todd Johnson | Life & Property Protection Act |
| 3/11/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0273 | Monitor | Natasha Marcus | Charlotte Firefighters’ Retirement System Act |
| 3/11/2021 – Senate – Filed | |||
| S 0290 | Monitor | Danny Britt | Fire Depts/Prohibit Certain Crimes |
| 3/15/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| S 0308 | Monitor | Todd Johnson | Prohibits charging an additional inspection fees if a new code violations are found in folow-up inspections. |
| 3/16/2021 – Senate – Filed | |||
Joint Legislative Committee – This committee was established by both the NCSFA, NCAFC, and PFFPNC Executive Boards to address legislative issues that impact the Fire Service of North Carolina. The Committee Members are:
Quentin Cash, NCSFA Chairperson
Chris Davis, NCSFA
Richard Pulley, NCSFA
Scott Rogers, NCSFA
Tim Bradley, NCSFA Staff
Ed Brinson, NCSFA Staff
Debbie Clary, NCSFA Lobbyist
Chris Langham, NCAFC
Kevin Gordon, NCAFC
Buddy Martinette, NCAFC
Dolly Hulin, NCAFC
Donnie Hall, NCAFC
Wes Hutchins, NCAFC Staff
Jake Whisnant, NCAFC Staff
Scott Mullins, PFFPNC
Josh Smith, PFFPNC
David Pollard, PFFPNC
Bob Bobzien, PFFPNC
Brian Lewis, PFFPNC Lobbyist
For additional information contact:
Tim Bradley, Executive Director
Quentin Cash, Chairperson
Debbie Clary, Governmental Affairs
Cancer Legislation For the NC Fire Service
During the 2019/2020 Legislative Session the joint Legislative Committee of the NCSFA and NCAFC discussed the priority of Cancer Legislation for the fire service and what needed to be done to secure passage. Both self-funded workers compensation systems used in NC for the fire service feared the passage of presumptive cancer legislation, since it took cancer treatment out of the medical insurance arena and put the total cost on workers compensation insurance. This raised concerns about escalating rates. in addition, some states like Georgia had found that presumptive did not mean automatic coverage since the WC’s carriers could still challenge and deny coverage, and firefighters were still not getting benefits. It was felt that an Insurance alternative, similar to what other States like Florida, South Carolina, and even eventually Georgia had passed, may be a better alternative.
In 2020 representatives from the NC State Firefighters Association (NCSFA) met with representatives from the League of Municipalities (NCLM) and discussed an insurance option as opposed to presumptive cancer. NCLM agreed that this would be a more acceptable option than presumptive legislation. In late 2020, NCSFA again met with the League and an insurance consultant they had brought in from Georgia to discuss an insurance bill. The consultant had been involved in both Florida’s and Georgia’s legislation. A draft cancer insurance bill was developed by the consultant with input from NCSFA from the discussions.
In early 2021, the new Fire Service Joint Legislative Committee (NCSFA, NCAFC, PFFPNC) also agreed an insurance cancer bill may be a better option for passage going into the 2021 session and the specifics of the draft bill were reviewed. During the same time frame, with new Gross Premium Assessment (GPA or GPT) numbers provided by Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey, NCSFA developed a chart with options for increasing the GPA to fund cancer. The specifics of the calculations provided funding for the cancer bill (approximately $130 per firefighter), increased funding for the grant program, increased funding going to the General Fund to be used for the Fire and Rescue Pension program, and kept Relief Fund and VSWCF funding stable with normal growth going into the future.
The draft bill as well as the GPA funding option has been provided to senior legislators in the House and Senate. Last week NCSFA and members of the Joint Fire Service Legislative Committee met with key legislators from the House and Senate to discuss the bill. It is our hope that a bill with be introduced soon in the House and/or Senate. Funding options may change but we have provided them with an option. Here is a synopsis of the bill presented.
Proposed North Carolina Firefighter Cancer Insurance Language
Program Structure Specifics for Drafting
Specific Language Referencing Program as an Alternative to Workers’ Compensation
1. The legislation will include specific language describing the benefit program as an alternative to Workers’ Compensation.
2. The language states that a firefighter who files for a cancer diagnosis in the workers’ compensation is not eligible for the benefits under the alternative program.
Eligibility
1. Continuous Years of Service – To be eligible under the program, the firefighter must have completed five years of service.
2. No Prior Diagnosis of Cancer – To be eligible for the cancer program, a firefighter is required to confirm they had no diagnosis of a covered cancer prior to the effective date of the program.
3. Tobacco Use – A firefighter must confirm they have not used tobacco products within 1 year of their effective date of coverage to be eligible under the program.
4. Definition of Active Firefighter Status – The legislation will reference the statutory definition of an active firefighter in (B)(2) Chapter 58-84-5(3a): “Performs work or training connected with fire protection, fire prevention, fire control, fire education, fire inspection, fire investigation, rescue, Emergency Medical Services, special operations, or performs the statutory duties and responsibilities of the fire chief as set forth in G.S. 160A-292.”
Date of Diagnosis and Compensability
1. A cancer diagnosis must occur on or after the effective date of the program to qualify for the lump-sum benefit.
Cancers Covered under the Program
1. Mesothelioma.
2. Testicular cancer.
3. Intestinal cancer.
4. Esophageal cancer.
5. Multiple myeloma
6. Leukemia
7. Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma
8. Malignant melanoma
9. Brain cancer
10. Prostate cancer
11. Colon cancer
12. Stomach cancer
13. Kidney cancer
14. Bladder cancer
15. Ovarian Cancer
16. Breast Cancer
Lump-sum Benefit
1. The benefit amounts for the lump-sum benefit paid upon initial diagnosis are:
a. $25,000 for a diagnosis of a severe form of cancer (Stage 3,4).
b. $6,250 for the less severe cancer (Stage 1,2).
c. The definitions of severe/less severe will appear in the legislation.
2. Recurrence Provision – The legislation will provide for a 2X recurrence benefit allowing benefits for more than one diagnosis of cancer.
a. A 2X recurrence benefit funds up to $50,000 of indemnity benefit paid for severe and/or less severe cancer diagnosis.
b. The second diagnosis must occur at least 180 days after the first diagnosis.
3. Offset/Coordination – The lump-sum benefit will not offset or coordinate with any existing health insurance program. (meaning coverage benefits from other policies will not affect the payout of this policy.)
4. Taxability of Lump-sum Benefit – As the cost of the lump-sum benefit is not paid by the firefighter, it is deemed income by the IRS and is therefore taxable at the federal level. The legislation will state the benefit is not taxable at the state level. (we can’t do anything about federal)
Disability Benefit
1. Benefit Trigger – A firefighter must be unable to perform their duty as a firefighter due to cancer.
2. Date of Disability Due to Cancer – The disability elimination period commences on the date the firefighter is no longer able to work due to cancer.
3. 180 Day Elimination Period – The legislation will require that a firefighter remain disabled for 180 days before receiving monthly benefits.
4. Three Year Benefit Duration – The program will provide a monthly benefit for up to three years providing the firefighter remains disabled.
5. Monthly Benefit
a. Salaried firefighters would receive a monthly benefit that is 60% of their monthly earnings to a maximum of $5,000.
b. Volunteer firefighters would receive a flat monthly benefit of $1,500.
c. The disability benefit will coordinate with other sources of disability income.
d. The disability benefit will not coordinate with any insurance product the firefighter purchased for themselves or their families.
e. As the cost of the lump-sum benefit is not paid by the firefighter, it is deemed income by the IRS and is therefore taxable at the federal level.
f. The legislation will state the benefit is not taxable at the state level.
Continuation
1. Continuation of the Benefit Program – The program will allow a firefighter to continue the indemnity benefit when they retire or leave the fire service provided the firefighter pays the insurance premium.
2. Rates and Plan Design – The firefighter would have access to the same indemnity benefit at the same program rates.
Premium Rates and Plan Design
1. Premium Rates – The program will offer the same rate for all eligible firefighters regardless of age, fire service occupation, employer (state, municipality, county or private fire departments) or location.
2. Plan Design – The program will offer the same base plan design satisfying the mandate of the legislation.
Effective Date
1. Start Date of the Program – January 1, 2022. (depending upon passage date to allow for budgeting)
Revision of G.S. 143-166.2 6 (e)
In addition our current Line of Duty Death Benefit under GS 143 will be amended to include the additional cancers covered by this bill.
1. Adding Additional Compensable Cancers to Firefighter Line of Duty Benefit – Currently G.S. 143-166.2 6 (e) lists four cancers – Mesothelioma, Testicular, Intestinal and Esophageal cancers.
2. The legislation will revise the line of duty death benefit to include the cancers consistent with the cancer insurance.
2021 legislative Session Update #7
The report below shows the bills we are tracking thus far, and the list will be updated as more are introduced. We’ll continue to monitor the status of each. Although several bills have been introduced, movement has been slow since the General Assembly has been working on budget and Covid issues.
Each bill is marked with the status the NCSFA/NCAFC/PFFPNC Joint Legislative Committee has established, or simply Monitor for those bills related to fire, rescue, or safety which were introduced that the Committee has not discussed. Priority designation means the bill was listed as a priority by the Committee, Support indicates those that are not our Priority but the Committee agreed to support, and any that may be listed as Oppose would be those the Committee agreed to oppose.
Tim Bradley, Executive Director
Quentin Cash, Legislative Committee Chairperson
Debbie Clary, Lobbyist
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.
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.
|
Priority |
Robert Davis |
Provides Search and Rescue Funds For Regional Teams to DPS |
|||
|
1/28/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Appropriations, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House |
|||||
|
Monitor |
James Clampitt |
Impaired Driving Law Revisions |
|||
|
2/1/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Judiciary 2, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House |
|||||
|
Support |
Kelly Hastings |
Provides penalties for shooting into or pointing a laser at emergency vehicles |
|||
|
2/2/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Judiciary 2, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House |
|||||
|
Monitor |
Harry Warren |
Allows EMS personnel trained to do so to carry weapons during SWAT or similar law enforcement actions if the are embedded in the team. |
|||
|
2/4/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Judiciary 3, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House |
|||||
|
|
Monitor 2/19/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Local Government – Land Use, Planning and Development, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House
Monitor 2/23/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Finance, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House |
Bobby Hanig
John Bradford
|
Increase Building Permit Exemption Threshold
Property Tax Relief for COVID Affected Bus |
||
|
|
Monitor 2/24/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Judiciary 4, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House |
Jeffrey McNeely | Also allows EMS Personnel to carry firearms on calls supporting law enforcement similar to HB 48 and SB 134. | ||
|
Support |
George Cleveland |
Similar to SB 4 and provides for equal treatment of government retirees on tax exemptions. |
|||
|
2/4/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Finance, if favorable, State Personnel, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House |
|||||
|
|
Monitor 2/15/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Finance, if favorable, State Personnel, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House |
George Cleveland | Gov’t Retirees Tax Deduction | ||
| H 0203
|
Monitor 3/2/2021 – House – Filed |
John Faircloth |
Extends deadline for certification of Telecommunicators |
||
|
|
Monitor 3/3/2021 – House – Filed |
Patricia Hurley |
Allows use of electronic devices with GPS such as phones to be used in search situations. |
||
|
Support |
Jim Burgin | Provides equal tax benefits for State and Local Government Employees | |||
| 1/28/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||||
|
Monitor |
Jim Burgin |
Licensing Certain Fire Safety Equip. Work |
|||
|
1/28/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate |
|||||
|
Monitor |
Jim Burgin |
Hands Free NC |
|||
|
1/28/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate |
|||||
|
Monitor |
Todd Johnson |
Adds rescue and EMS to reduced Lifetime Hinting Licenses. |
|||
|
2/2/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate |
|||||
|
Oppose |
Vickie Sawyer |
Increases the use of consumer fireworks and moves the age for purchase from 16 to 18. |
|||
|
2/2/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate |
|
Support |
Warren Daniel |
Creates a Fellow program in the Community College System, creates a tax property exemption for volunteer firefighters, and increases the Fire and Rescue Pension |
|
|
2/9/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate |
| Monitor | Warren Daniel | REACT/Plates/Siren | |||
| 2/17/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||||
| Monitor | Jim Perry | RSimilar to HB 48 allowing EMS personnel to carry weapons on Law Enforcement support calls. | |
| 2/24/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
Joint Legislative Committee – This committee was established by both the NCSFA, NCAFC, and PFFPNC Executive Boards to address legislative issues that impact the Fire Service of North Carolina. The Committee Members are:
Quentin Cash, NCSFA Chairperson
Chris Davis, NCSFA
Richard Pulley, NCSFA
Scott Rogers, NCSFA
Tim Bradley, NCSFA Staff
Ed Brinson, NCSFA Staff
Debbie Clary, NCSFA Lobbyist
Chris Langham, NCAFC
Kevin Gordon, NCAFC
Buddy Martinette, NCAFC
Dolly Hulin, NCAFC
Donnie Hall, NCAFC
Wes Hutchins, NCAFC Staff
Jake Whisnant, NCAFC Staff
Scott Mullins, PFFPNC
Josh Smith, PFFPNC
David Pollard, PFFPNC
Bob Bobzien, PFFPNC
Brian Lewis, PFFPNC Lobbyist
For additional information contact:
Tim Bradley, Executive Director
Quentin Cash, Chairperson
Debbie Clary, Governmental Affairs
2021 legislative Session Update #6
The report below shows the bills we are tracking thus far, and the list will be updated as more are introduced. We’ll continue to monitor the status of each. Although several bills have been introduced, movement has been slow since the General Assembly has been working on budget and Covid issues.
Each bill is marked with the status the NCSFA/NCAFC/PFFPNC Joint Legislative Committee has established, or simply Monitor for those bills related to fire, rescue, or safety which were introduced that the Committee has not discussed. Priority designation means the bill was listed as a priority by the Committee, Support indicates those that are not our Priority but the Committee agreed to support, and any that may be listed as Oppose would be those the Committee agreed to oppose.
Tim Bradley, Executive Director
Quentin Cash, Legislative Committee Chairperson
Debbie Clary, Lobbyist
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.
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.
|
Priority |
Robert Davis |
Provides Search and Rescue Funds For Regional Teams to DPS |
|||
|
1/28/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Appropriations, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House |
|||||
|
Monitor |
James Clampitt |
Impaired Driving Law Revisions |
|||
|
2/1/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Judiciary 2, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House |
|||||
|
Support |
Kelly Hastings |
Provides penalties for shooting into or pointing a laser at emergency vehicles |
|||
|
2/2/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Judiciary 2, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House |
|||||
|
Monitor |
Harry Warren |
Allows EMS personnel trained to do so to carry weapons during SWAT or similar law enforcement actions if the are embedded in the team. |
|||
|
2/4/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Judiciary 3, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House |
|||||
|
|
Monitor 2/19/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Local Government – Land Use, Planning and Development, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House
Monitor 2/23/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Finance, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House |
Bobby Hanig
John Bradford
|
Increase Building Permit Exemption Threshold
Property Tax Relief for COVID Affected Bus |
||
|
|
Monitor 2/24/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Judiciary 4, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House |
Jeffrey McNeely | Also allows EMS Personnel to carry firearms on calls supporting law enforcement similar to HB 48 and SB 134. | ||
|
Support |
George Cleveland |
Similar to SB 4 and provides for equal treatment of government retirees on tax exemptions. |
|||
|
2/4/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Finance, if favorable, State Personnel, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House |
|||||
|
|
Monitor 2/15/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Finance, if favorable, State Personnel, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House |
George Cleveland | Gov’t Retirees Tax Deduction | ||
|
Support |
Jim Burgin | Provides equal tax benefits for State and Local Government Employees | |||
| 1/28/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||||
|
Monitor |
Jim Burgin |
Licensing Certain Fire Safety Equip. Work |
|||
|
1/28/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate |
|||||
|
Monitor |
Jim Burgin |
Hands Free NC |
|||
|
1/28/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate |
|||||
|
Monitor |
Todd Johnson |
Adds rescue and EMS to reduced Lifetime Hinting Licenses. |
|||
|
2/2/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate |
|||||
|
Oppose |
Vickie Sawyer |
Increases the use of consumer fireworks and moves the age for purchase from 16 to 18. |
|||
|
2/2/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate |
|
Support |
Warren Daniel |
Creates a Fellow program in the Community College System, creates a tax property exemption for volunteer firefighters, and increases the Fire and Rescue Pension |
|
|
2/9/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate |
| Monitor | Warren Daniel | REACT/Plates/Siren | |||
| 2/17/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||||
| Monitor | Jim Perry | RSimilar to HB 48 allowing EMS personnel to carry weapons on Law Enforcement support calls. | |
| 2/24/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
Joint Legislative Committee – This committee was established by both the NCSFA, NCAFC, and PFFPNC Executive Boards to address legislative issues that impact the Fire Service of North Carolina. The Committee Members are:
Quentin Cash, NCSFA Chairperson
Chris Davis, NCSFA
Richard Pulley, NCSFA
Scott Rogers, NCSFA
Tim Bradley, NCSFA Staff
Ed Brinson, NCSFA Staff
Debbie Clary, NCSFA Lobbyist
Chris Langham, NCAFC
Kevin Gordon, NCAFC
Buddy Martinette, NCAFC
Dolly Hulin, NCAFC
Donnie Hall, NCAFC
Wes Hutchins, NCAFC Staff
Jake Whisnant, NCAFC Staff
Scott Mullins, PFFPNC
Josh Smith, PFFPNC
David Pollard, PFFPNC
Bob Bobzien, PFFPNC
Brian Lewis, PFFPNC Lobbyist
For additional information contact:
Tim Bradley, Executive Director
Quentin Cash, Chairperson
Debbie Clary, Governmental Affairs
2021 legislative Session Update #5
The report below shows the bills we are tracking thus far, and the list will be updated as more are introduced. We’ll continue to monitor the status of each. Although several bills have been introduced, movement has been slow since the General Assembly has been working on budget and Covid issues.
Each bill is marked with the status the NCSFA/NCAFC/PFFPNC Joint Legislative Committee has established, or simply Monitor for those bills related to fire, rescue, or safety which were introduced that the Committee has not discussed. Priority designation means the bill was listed as a priority by the Committee, Support indicates those that are not our Priority but the Committee agreed to support, and any that may be listed as Oppose would be those the Committee agreed to oppose.
Tim Bradley, Executive Director
Quentin Cash, Legislative Committee Chairperson
Debbie Clary, Lobbyist
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.
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.
|
Priority |
Robert Davis |
Provides Search and Rescue Funds For Regional Teams to DPS |
|
|
1/28/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Appropriations, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House |
|||
|
Monitor |
James Clampitt |
Impaired Driving Law Revisions |
|
|
2/1/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Judiciary 2, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House |
|||
|
Monitor |
Kelly Hastings |
Provides penalties for shooting into or pointing a laser at emergency vehicles |
|
|
2/2/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Judiciary 2, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House |
|||
|
Monitor |
Harry Warren |
Allows EMS personnel trained to do so to carry weapons during SWAT or similar law enforcement actions if the are embedded in the team. |
|
|
2/2/2021 – House – Filed |
|||
|
|
Monitor 2/17/2021 – House – Filed |
Bobby Hanig | Increase Building Permit Exemption Threshold |
|
Support |
George Cleveland |
Similar to SB 4 and provides for equal treatment of government retirees on tax exemptions. |
|
|
2/4/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Finance, if favorable, State Personnel, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House |
|||
|
|
Monitor 2/15/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Finance, if favorable, State Personnel, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House |
George Cleveland | Gov’t Retirees Tax Deduction |
|
Support |
Jim Burgin |
Provides equal tax benefits for State and Local Government Employees |
|
|
1/28/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate |
|||
|
Monitor |
Jim Burgin |
Licensing Certain Fire Safety Equip. Work |
|
|
1/28/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate |
|||
|
Monitor |
Jim Burgin |
Hands Free NC |
|
|
1/28/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate |
|||
|
Monitor |
Todd Johnson |
Adds rescue and EMS to reduced Lifetime Hinting Licenses. |
|
|
2/2/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate |
|||
|
Oppose |
Vickie Sawyer |
Increases the use of consumer fireworks and moves the age for purchase from 16 to 18. |
|
|
2/2/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate |
|
Support |
Warren Daniel |
Creates a Fellow program in the Community College System, creates a tax property exemption for volunteer firefighters, and increases the Fire and Rescue Pension |
|
|
2/9/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate |
| Monitor | Warren Daniel | REACT/Plates/Siren | |
| 2/17/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
Joint Legislative Committee – This committee was established by both the NCSFA, NCAFC, and PFFPNC Executive Boards to address legislative issues that impact the Fire Service of North Carolina. The Committee Members are:
Quentin Cash, NCSFA Chairperson
Chris Davis, NCSFA
Richard Pulley, NCSFA
Scott Rogers, NCSFA
Tim Bradley, NCSFA Staff
Ed Brinson, NCSFA Staff
Debbie Clary, NCSFA Lobbyist
Chris Langham, NCAFC
Kevin Gordon, NCAFC
Buddy Martinette, NCAFC
Dolly Hulin, NCAFC
Donnie Hall, NCAFC
Wes Hutchins, NCAFC Staff
Jake Whisnant, NCAFC Staff
Scott Mullins, PFFPNC
Josh Smith, PFFPNC
David Pollard, PFFPNC
Bob Bobzien, PFFPNC
Brian Lewis, PFFPNC Lobbyist
For additional information contact:
Tim Bradley, Executive Director
Quentin Cash, Chairperson
Debbie Clary, Governmental Affairs
2021 legislative Session Update #4
Senate Bill 62 was added today affecting the emergency services. It creates a Fellow Program within the DCC, creates a property tax exemption for volunteer firefighters, and increases the Fire and Rescue Pension $10, both premiums and monthly benefits. The report below shows the bills we are tracking thus far, and the list will be updated as more are introduced. We’ll continue to monitor the status of each.
Each bill is marked with the status the NCSFA/NCAFC/PFFPNC Joint Legislative Committee has established, or simply Monitor for those bills related to fire, rescue, or safety which were introduced that the Committee has not discussed. Priority designation means the bill was listed as a priority by the Committee, Support indicates those that are not our Priority but the Committee agreed to support, and any that may be listed as Oppose would be those the Committee agreed to oppose.
Tim Bradley, Executive Director
Quentin Cash, Legislative Committee Chairperson
Debbie Clary, Lobbyist
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.
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.
|
Priority |
Robert Davis |
Provides Search and Rescue Funds For Regional Teams to DPS |
|
|
1/28/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Appropriations, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House |
|||
|
Monitor |
James Clampitt |
Impaired Driving Law Revisions |
|
|
2/1/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Judiciary 2, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House |
|||
|
Monitor |
Kelly Hastings |
Provides penalties for shooting into or pointing a laser at emergency vehicles |
|
|
2/2/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Judiciary 2, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House |
|||
|
Monitor |
Harry Warren |
Allows EMS personnel trained to do so to carry weapons during SWAT or similar law enforcement actions if the are embedded in the team. |
|
|
2/2/2021 – House – Filed |
|||
|
Support |
George Cleveland |
Similar to SB 4 and provides for equal treatment of government retirees on tax exemptions. |
|
|
2/3/2021 – House – Filed |
|||
|
Support |
Jim Burgin |
Provides equal tax benefits for State and Local Government Employees |
|
|
1/28/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate |
|||
|
Monitor |
Jim Burgin |
Licensing Certain Fire Safety Equip. Work |
|
|
1/28/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate |
|||
|
Monitor |
Jim Burgin |
Hands Free NC |
|
|
1/28/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate |
|||
|
Monitor |
Todd Johnson |
Adds rescue and EMS to reduced Lifetime Hinting Licenses. |
|
|
2/2/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate |
|||
|
Oppose |
Vickie Sawyer |
Increases the use of consumer fireworks and moves the age for purchase from 16 to 18. |
|
|
2/2/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate |
|
Support |
Warren Daniel |
Creates a Fellow program in the Community College System, creates a tax property exemption for volunteer firefighters, and increases the Fire and Rescue Pension |
|
|
2/8/2021 – Senate – Filed |
Joint Legislative Committee – This committee was established by both the NCSFA, NCAFC, and PFFPNC Executive Boards to address legislative issues that impact the Fire Service of North Carolina. The Committee Members are:
Quentin Cash, NCSFA Chairperson
Chris Davis, NCSFA
Richard Pulley, NCSFA
Scott Rogers, NCSFA
Tim Bradley, NCSFA Staff
Ed Brinson, NCSFA Staff
Debbie Clary, NCSFA Lobbyist
Chris Langham, NCAFC
Kevin Gordon, NCAFC
Buddy Martinette, NCAFC
Dolly Hulin, NCAFC
Donnie Hall, NCAFC
Wes Hutchins, NCAFC Staff
Jake Whisnant, NCAFC Staff
Scott Mullins, PFFPNC
Josh Smith, PFFPNC
David Pollard, PFFPNC
Bob Bobzien, PFFPNC
Brian Lewis, PFFPNC Lobbyist
For additional information contact:
Tim Bradley, Executive Director
Quentin Cash, Chairperson
Debbie Clary, Governmental Affairs
2021 legislative Session Update #3
Two bills were added yesterday affecting the emergency services; House Bill 48 and House Bill 52. A description is added for the new bills as well. The report below shows the bills we are tracking thus far, and the list will be updated as more are introduced. We’ll continue to monitor the status of each.
Each bill is marked with the status the NCSFA/NCAFC/PFFPNC Joint Legislative Committee has established, or simply Monitor for those bills related to fire, rescue, or safety which were introduced that the Committee has not discussed. Priority designation means the bill was listed as a priority by the Committee, Support indicates those that are not our Priority but the Committee agreed to support, and any that may be listed as Oppose would be those the Committee agreed to oppose.
Tim Bradley, Executive Director
Quentin Cash, Legislative Committee Chairperson
Debbie Clary, Lobbyist
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.
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.
|
Priority |
Robert Davis |
Provides Search and Rescue Funds For Regional Teams to DPS |
|
|
1/28/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Appropriations, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House |
|||
|
Monitor |
James Clampitt |
Impaired Driving Law Revisions |
|
|
2/1/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Judiciary 2, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House |
|||
|
Monitor |
Kelly Hastings |
Provides penalties for shooting into or pointing a laser at emergency vehicles |
|
|
2/2/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Judiciary 2, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House |
|||
|
Monitor |
Harry Warren |
Allows EMS personnel trained to do so to carry weapons during SWAT or similar law enforcement actions if the are embedded in the team. |
|
|
2/2/2021 – House – Filed |
|||
|
Support |
George Cleveland |
Similar to SB 4 and provides for equal treatment of government retirees on tax exemptions. |
|
|
2/3/2021 – House – Filed |
|||
|
Support |
Jim Burgin |
Provides equal tax benefits for State and Local Government Employees |
|
|
1/28/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate |
|||
|
Monitor |
Jim Burgin |
Licensing Certain Fire Safety Equip. Work |
|
|
1/28/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate |
|||
|
Monitor |
Jim Burgin |
Hands Free NC |
|
|
1/28/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate |
|||
|
Monitor |
Todd Johnson |
Adds rescue and EMS to reduced Lifetime Hinting Licenses. |
|
|
2/2/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate |
|||
|
Oppose |
Vickie Sawyer |
Increases the use of consumer fireworks and moves the age for purchase from 16 to 18. |
|
|
2/2/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate |
Joint Legislative Committee – This committee was established by both the NCSFA, NCAFC, and PFFPNC Executive Boards to address legislative issues that impact the Fire Service of North Carolina. The Committee Members are:
Quentin Cash, NCSFA Chairperson
Chris Davis, NCSFA
Richard Pulley, NCSFA
Scott Rogers, NCSFA
Tim Bradley, NCSFA Staff
Ed Brinson, NCSFA Staff
Debbie Clary, NCSFA Lobbyist
Chris Langham, NCAFC
Kevin Gordon, NCAFC
Buddy Martinette, NCAFC
Dolly Hulin, NCAFC
Donnie Hall, NCAFC
Wes Hutchins, NCAFC Staff
Jake Whisnant, NCAFC Staff
Scott Mullins, PFFPNC
Josh Smith, PFFPNC
David Pollard, PFFPNC
Bob Bobzien, PFFPNC
Brian Lewis, PFFPNC Lobbyist
For additional information contact:
Tim Bradley, Executive Director
Quentin Cash, Chairperson
Debbie Clary, Governmental Affairs
2021/2022 NC Legislative Agenda Amended
Thank you for joining and participating in our Legislative Advocacy Group. For those of you new to Capital Impact, this will provide a means for you to track legislation, and for us to reach out to you for assistance in lobbying and advocacy. This years Legislative Session begins a 2 year biennial session that concludes next year. As a new Session begins, all Legislative Bills start fresh with new numbers. As new Bills are introduced in the House or Senate that impact the fire and emergency services, we will post those and provide summaries for you to follow. As always, we’ll keep you posted as things progress.
The combined Legislative Committee of the NC State Firefighters’ Association, the NC Association of Fire Chiefs, and the Professional Firefighters and Paramedics of NC have been meeting and discussing priorities since late last year.
Our Number 1 Priority for this year is to pass legislation that provides financial protection to firefighters who are diagnosed with Cancer, and to find an funding source. The approach will be to develop an Insurance Bill that will provide up front money upon diagnosis, monthly support for firefighters who are out of work due to treatments, other benefits, and expand the coverage in this Bill and the existing Line of Duty Death Benefit to include a more comprehensive list of 16 cancers. When this Bill is introduced we will provide additional information. As you talk to Legislators early in the session, please let them know this is the Number 1 priority for the fire service.
Other State Legislation the Committee has discussed pursuing include:
– Separation Allowance for Career Firefighters with Funding
– Search and Rescue Funding for S&R Teams
– Allowing Rear Facing Blue Lights on Fire Apparatus
– Property Tax Exemption for Volunteers
– Updates and Improvements in the Fire and Rescue Pension Program
Put on your Calendar Today….Legislative Day at the NC General Assembly is Currently Planned for May 5th.
(This will be based on our ability to meet under Covid Conditions that may exist)
May 5th we will go as a group to the Legislative Building and meet and greet legislators and let them know what our goals are. Our goal is to have at least one member from each legislative district in Raleigh, so we need our members from the East, West and Piedmont to attend. Please mark your calendars now and plan to attend. Specific information will be posted on our web site as plans are finalized.
North Carolina State Firefighters’ Association
323 West Jones Street
Raleigh, NC 27603
800-253-4733 Toll-free
919-821-2132 Local
919-821-9382 Fax
Tim Bradley, Executive Director
2021 legislative Session Update #2
Three bills were added yesterday affecting the emergency services; House Bill 36, Senate Bill 30, and Senate Bill 40. This reports also makes minor corrections to the Legislative Committee list. A description is added for the new bills as well. The report below shows the bills we are tracking thus far, and the list will be updated as more are introduced. We’ll continue to monitor the status of each.
Each bill is marked with the status the NCSFA/NCAFC/PFFPNC Joint Legislative Committee has established, or simply Monitor for those bills related to fire, rescue, or safety which were introduced that the Committee has not discussed. Priority designation means the bill was listed as a priority by the Committee, Support indicates those that are not our Priority but the Committee agreed to support, and any that may be listed as Oppose would be those the Committee agreed to oppose.
Tim Bradley, Executive Director
Quentin Cash, Legislative Committee Chairperson
Debbie Clary, Lobbyist
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.
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.
|
Priority |
Robert Davis |
Provides Search and Rescue Funds For Regional Teams to DPS |
|
|
1/28/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Appropriations, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House |
|||
|
Monitor |
James Clampitt |
Impaired Driving Law Revisions |
|
|
2/1/2021 – House – Ref to the Com on Judiciary 2, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House |
|||
|
Monitor |
Kelly Hastings |
Provides penalties for shooting into or pointing a laser at emergency vehicles |
|
|
2/1/2021 – House – Filed |
|||
|
Support |
Jim Burgin |
Provides equal tax benefits for State and Local Government Employees |
|
|
1/28/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate |
|||
|
Monitor |
Jim Burgin |
Licensing Certain Fire Safety Equip. Work |
|
|
1/28/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate |
|||
|
Monitor |
Jim Burgin |
Hands Free NC |
|
|
1/28/2021 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate |
|||
|
Monitor |
Todd Johnson |
Adds rescue and EMS to reduced Lifetime Hinting Licenses. |
|
|
2/1/2021 – Senate – Filed |
|||
|
Oppose |
Vickie Sawyer |
Increases the use of consumer fireworks and moves the age for purchase from 16 to 18. |
|
|
2/1/2021 – Senate – Filed |
Joint Legislative Committee – This committee was established by both the NCSFA, NCAFC, and PFFPNC Executive Boards to address legislative issues that impact the Fire Service of North Carolina. The Committee Members are:
Quentin Cash, NCSFA Chairperson
Chris Davis, NCSFA
Richard Pulley, NCSFA
Scott Rogers, NCSFA
Tim Bradley, NCSFA Staff
Ed Brinson, NCSFA Staff
Debbie Clary, NCSFA Lobbyist
Chris Langham, NCAFC
Kevin Gordon, NCAFC
Buddy Martinette, NCAFC
Dolly Hulin, NCAFC
Donnie Hall, NCAFC
Wes Hutchins, NCAFC Staff
Scott Mullins, PFFPNC
Josh Smith, PFFPNC
David Pollard, PFFPNC
Bob Bobzien, PFFPNC
Brian Lewis, PFFPNC Lobbyist
For additional information contact:
Tim Bradley, Executive Director
Quentin Cash, Chairperson
Debbie Clary, Governmental Affairs
Welcome to the 2021 Legislative Tracking System
2021/2022 NC Legislative Agenda
Thank you for joining and participating in our Legislative Advocacy Group. For those of you new to Capital Impact, this will provide a means for you to track legislation, and for us to reach out to you for assistance in lobbying and advocacy. This years Legislative Session begins a 2 year biennial session that concludes next year. As a new Session begins, all Legislative Bills start fresh with new numbers. As new Bills are introduced in the House or Senate that impact the fire and emergency services, we will post those and provide summaries for you to follow. As always, we’ll keep you posted as things progress.
The combined Legislative Committee of the NC State Firefighters’ Association, the NC Association of Fire Chiefs, and the Professional Firefighters and Paramedics of NC have been meeting and discussing priorities since late last year.
Our Number 1 Priority for this year is to pass legislation that provides financial protection to firefighters who are diagnosed with Cancer. The approach will be to develop an Insurance Bill that will provide up front money upon diagnosis, monthly support for firefighters who are out of work due to treatments, other benefits, and expand the coverage in this Bill and the existing Line of Duty Death Benefit to include a more comprehensive list of 16 cancers. When this Bill is introduced we will provide additional information. As you talk to Legislators early in the session, please let them know this is the Number 1 priority for the fire service.
Other State Legislation the Committee has discussed pursuing include:
– Separation Allowance for Career Firefighters
– Search and Rescue Funding for S&R Teams
– Allowing Rear Facing Blue Lights on Fire Apparatus
– Property Tax Exemption for Volunteers
– Updates and Improvements in the Fire and Rescue Pension Program
Put on your Calendar Today….Legislative Day at the NC General Assembly is Currently Planned for May 5th.
(This will be based on our ability to meet under Covid Conditions that may exist)
May 5th we will go as a group to the Legislative Building and meet and greet legislators and let them know what our goals are. Our goal is to have at least one member from each legislative district in Raleigh, so we need our members from the East, West and Piedmont to attend. Please mark your calendars now and plan to attend. Specific information will be posted on our web site as plans are finalized.
North Carolina State Firefighters’ Association
323 West Jones Street
Raleigh, NC 27603
800-253-4733 Toll-free
919-821-2132 Local
919-821-9382 Fax
Tim Bradley, Executive Director
LEGISLATIVE INITIATIVE TO ALLOW PARTICIPATION OF NON-PROFIT FIRE DEPARTMENTS TO PARTICIPATE IN LOCAL GOVERNMENT RETIREMENT UPDATE BILL NUMBER
As an update, the Ways and Means Secure Retirement Act is HR 8696 for reference.
Last week I sent out another notice concerning introduction of HR 8538 in Congress titled “How have we gotten here and where do we go from here?” The good news is the Ways and Means Committee have now included it in their Retirement Package which has been introduced in the House. “Last Week, the top Republican on the House Ways and Means Committee Kevin Brady (R-TX) and Ways and Means Committee Chairman Richard E. Neal (D-MA) introduced the Securing a Strong Retirement Act of 2020, bipartisan legislation to help a greater number of Americans successfully save for a secure retirement. The bill builds on the Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement (SECURE) Act of 2019 to further improve workers’ long-term financial well being.” Our bill wording is on page 44 of the bill referenced below. This is great news since we are part of a larger picture that will get more attention. I’ve heard from two staffers in Washington, one from Grassley’s Office (Finance Committee Chair), and Dave Finger with NVFC who is hearing the same thing. They both believe the retirement bill will pass, but maybe not until next year. The election delay has everything on a sort of hold. The good news is the Senate also has a retirement package they want, so both Chambers will want to move it at some point. As with everything in Washington, it takes time. We’ll continue to monitor the bill as it progresses. Here is a link to the bill.
Background
In early 2018 Past President Jeff Cash from Cherryville set up a meeting with Congressman Patrick McHenry to discuss the issue of non-profits being allowed to join LGERS and the need for federal intervention. The meeting was held in Hickory and attended by members of the NCSFA and NCAFC’s Board and staff. The State law that had initially allowed non-profit career firefighters in LGERS was overturned in the early 2000’s by an IRS opinion letter indicating it would change the status of LGERS, possibly causing it to be taxed differently. At that point the NC law was revoked. For the past two years we have worked closely with Congressman Holding’s and Congressman McHenry’s Office to get federal legislation introduced. One reason for the delay was trying to get a majority of the Ways and Means Committee to agree to the legislation. Also, when the House changed to Democratic in 2018, we had to realign our efforts. There were also issues with the draft legislation. We have been working with McHenry’s and Holdings office hard for the last year, and a few weeks ago we received an indication from Holding’s and McHenry’s office they were ready to move forward with the introduction. The last week before introduction we worked hard to get the remaining members of the NC delegation to sign onto the Bill, and we convinced all but one.
October 6th, 2020, the bill was introduced in the House Of Representatives. HR 8538 went to the Ways and Means Committee, which included it in their major retirement package. This is the first and critical step to removing the Federal IRS restriction that prohibited NC from moving forward. If passed in Congress it will allow the NC General Assembly the opportunity to re-instate the law allowing participation. The final decision for participation will be getting legislation passed in NC, and the fire department itself agreeing to participate. IT IS IMPORTANT TO KNOW THAT IF IT PASSES AT THE FEDERAL LEVEL, WE WILL STILL HAVE TO GET IT INTRODUCED NEXT YEAR AND PASSED AT THE STATE LEVEL.
In addition to those in North Carolina who fought for the Bill, assisting tremendously in getting us to this point were: Rich Sheedy, Congressman Holding’s Office; Doug Nation, Congressman McHenry’s office; Dave Finger, National Volunteer Fire Council; and Evan Davis, International Association of Fire Chiefs.
|
Cosponsor |
Date Cosponsored |
|
10/06/2020 |
|
|
10/06/2020 |
|
|
10/06/2020 |
|
|
10/06/2020 |
|
|
10/06/2020 |
|
|
10/06/2020 |
|
|
10/06/2020 |
|
|
10/06/2020 |
|
|
10/06/2020 |
|
|
10/06/2020 |
LEGISLATIVE INITIATIVE TO ALLOW PARTICIPATION OF NON-PROFIT FIRE DEPARTMENTS TO PARTICIPATE IN LOCAL GOVERNMENT RETIREMENT UPDATE
Last week I sent out another notice concerning introduction of HR 8538 in Congress titled “How have we gotten here and where do we go from here?” The good news is the Ways and Means Committee have now included it in their Retirement Package which has been introduced in the House. “Last Week, the top Republican on the House Ways and Means Committee Kevin Brady (R-TX) and Ways and Means Committee Chairman Richard E. Neal (D-MA) introduced the Securing a Strong Retirement Act of 2020, bipartisan legislation to help a greater number of Americans successfully save for a secure retirement. The bill builds on the Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement (SECURE) Act of 2019 to further improve workers’ long-term financial well being.” Our bill wording is on page 44 of the bill referenced below. This is great news since we are part of a larger picture that will get more attention. I’ve heard from two staffers in Washington, one from Grassley’s Office (Finance Committee Chair), and Dave Finger with NVFC who is hearing the same thing. They both believe the retirement bill will pass, but maybe not until next year. The election delay has everything on a sort of hold. The good news is the Senate also has a retirement package they want, so both Chambers will want to move it at some point. As with everything in Washington, it takes time. We’ll continue to monitor the bill as it progresses. Here is a link to the bill.
Background
In early 2018 Past President Jeff Cash from Cherryville set up a meeting with Congressman Patrick McHenry to discuss the issue of non-profits being allowed to join LGERS and the need for federal intervention. The meeting was held in Hickory and attended by members of the NCSFA and NCAFC’s Board and staff. The State law that had initially allowed non-profit career firefighters in LGERS was overturned in the early 2000’s by an IRS opinion letter indicating it would change the status of LGERS, possibly causing it to be taxed differently. At that point the NC law was revoked. For the past two years we have worked closely with Congressman Holding’s and Congressman McHenry’s Office to get federal legislation introduced. One reason for the delay was trying to get a majority of the Ways and Means Committee to agree to the legislation. Also, when the House changed to Democratic in 2018, we had to realign our efforts. There were also issues with the draft legislation. We have been working with McHenry’s and Holdings office hard for the last year, and a few weeks ago we received an indication from Holding’s and McHenry’s office they were ready to move forward with the introduction. The last week before introduction we worked hard to get the remaining members of the NC delegation to sign onto the Bill, and we convinced all but one.
October 6th, 2020, the bill was introduced in the House Of Representatives. HR 8538 went to the Ways and Means Committee, which included it in their major retirement package. This is the first and critical step to removing the Federal IRS restriction that prohibited NC from moving forward. If passed in Congress it will allow the NC General Assembly the opportunity to re-instate the law allowing participation. The final decision for participation will be getting legislation passed in NC, and the fire department itself agreeing to participate. IT IS IMPORTANT TO KNOW THAT IF IT PASSES AT THE FEDERAL LEVEL, WE WILL STILL HAVE TO GET IT INTRODUCED NEXT YEAR AND PASSED AT THE STATE LEVEL.
In addition to those in North Carolina who fought for the Bill, assisting tremendously in getting us to this point were: Rich Sheedy, Congressman Holding’s Office; Doug Nation, Congressman McHenry’s office; Dave Finger, National Volunteer Fire Council; and Evan Davis, International Association of Fire Chiefs.
Pl
| Cosponsor | Date Cosponsored |
|---|---|
| Rep. McHenry, Patrick T. [R-NC-10]* | 10/06/2020 |
| Rep. Butterfield, G. K. [D-NC-1]* | 10/06/2020 |
| Rep. Murphy, Gregory [R-NC-3]* | 10/06/2020 |
| Rep. Foxx, Virginia [R-NC-5]* | 10/06/2020 |
| Rep. Price, David E. [D-NC-4]* | 10/06/2020 |
| Rep. Walker, Mark [R-NC-6]* | 10/06/2020 |
| Rep. Rouzer, David [R-NC-7]* | 10/06/2020 |
| Rep. Bishop, Dan [R-NC-9]* | 10/06/2020 |
| Rep. Hudson, Richard [R-NC-8]* | 10/06/2020 |
| Rep. Budd, Ted [R-NC-13]* | 10/06/2020 |
HOW WE GOT THIS FAR: LEGISLATIVE INITIATIVE TO ALLOW PARTICIPATION OF NON-PROFIT FIRE DEPARTMENTS TO PARTICIPATE IN LOCAL GOVERNMENT RETIREMENT
Last week I sent out a notice concerning introduction of HR 8538 in Congress. How have we gotten here and where do we go from here? In early 2018 Past President Jeff Cash from Cherryville set up a meeting with Congressman Patrick McHenry to discuss the issue of non-profits being allowed to join LGERS and the need for federal intervention. The meeting was held in Hickory and attended by members of the NCSFA and NCAFC’s Board and staff. The State law that had initially allowed non-profit career firefighters in LGERS was overturned in the early 2000’s by an IRS opinion letter indicating it would change the status of LGERS, possibly causing it to be taxed differently. At that point the NC law was revoked. For the past two years we have worked closely with Congressman Holding’s and Congressman McHenry’s Office to get federal legislation introduced. One reason for the delay was trying to get a majority of the Ways and Means Committee to agree to the legislation. Also, when the House changed to Democratic in 2018, we had to realign our efforts. There were also issues with the draft legislation. We have been working with McHenry’s and Holdings office hard for the last year, and a few weeks ago we received an indication from Holding’s and McHenry’s office they were ready to move forward with the introduction. The last week before introduction we worked hard to get the remaining members of the NC delegation to sign onto the Bill, and we convinced all but one.
October 6th, 2020, the bill was introduced in the House Of Representatives. HR 8538 now goes to the Ways and Means Committee, which we hope will include it in their major retirement package. This is the first and critical step to removing the Federal IRS restriction that prohibited NC from moving forward. If passed in Congress it will allow the NC General Assembly the opportunity to re-instate the law allowing participation. The final decision for participation will be getting legislation passed in NC, and the fire department itself agreeing to participate. IT IS IMPORTANT TO KNOW THAT IF IT PASSES AT THE FEDERAL LEVEL, WE WILL STILL HAVE TO GET IT INTRODUCED NEXT YEAR AND PASSED AT THE STATE LEVEL.
In addition to those in North Carolina who fought for the Bill, assisting tremendously in getting us to this point were: Rich Sheedy, Congressman Holding’s Office; Doug Nation, Congressman McHenry’s office; Dave Finger, National Volunteer Fire Council; and Evan Davis, International Association of Fire Chiefs.
Please call your Representatives and ask them to continue to push for passage of HR 8538.
|
Cosponsor |
Date Cosponsored |
|
10/06/2020 |
|
|
10/06/2020 |
|
|
10/06/2020 |
|
|
10/06/2020 |
|
|
10/06/2020 |
|
|
10/06/2020 |
|
|
10/06/2020 |
|
|
10/06/2020 |
|
|
10/06/2020 |
|
|
10/06/2020 |
UPDATE ON FEDERAL LEGISLATIVE INITIATIVE TO ALLOW PARTICIPATION OF NON-PROFIT FIRE DEPARTMENTS TO PARTICIPATE IN LOCAL GOVERNMENT RETIREMENT
For the past two years we have worked closely with Congressman Holding’s and Congressman McHenry’s Office to get federal legislation introduced to allow career firefighters on North Carolina’s non-profit fire departments, serving counties and cities by contract, to participate in the Local Government Retirement System (LGERS). I’m excited to report that Tuesday, October 6th, 2020, the bill was introduced in the House Of Representatives. HR 8538 now goes to the Ways and Means Committee, which we have worked closely with to try and get a majority agreement. This is the first and critical step to removing the Federal IRS restriction that prohibited NC from moving forward. If passed in Congress it will allow the NC General Assembly the opportunity to re-instate the law allowing participation. The final decision for participation will be getting legislation passed in NC, and the fire department itself agreeing to participate.
I’m pleased to also report that North Carolina’s entire group of Representatives with the exception of Rep. Adams signed onto the Bill, so it has the support of the majority of NC Representatives (See Chart Below). In addition to those in North Carolina who fought for the Bill, assisting tremendously in getting us to this point were: Rich Sheedy, Congressman Holding’s Office; Doug Nation, Congressman McHenry’s office; Dave Finger, National Volunteer Fire Council; Evan Davis, International Association of Fire Chiefs.
| Cosponsor | Date Cosponsored |
|---|---|
| Rep. McHenry, Patrick T. [R-NC-10]* | 10/06/2020 |
| Rep. Butterfield, G. K. [D-NC-1]* | 10/06/2020 |
| Rep. Murphy, Gregory [R-NC-3]* | 10/06/2020 |
| Rep. Foxx, Virginia [R-NC-5]* | 10/06/2020 |
| Rep. Price, David E. [D-NC-4]* | 10/06/2020 |
| Rep. Walker, Mark [R-NC-6]* | 10/06/2020 |
| Rep. Rouzer, David [R-NC-7]* | 10/06/2020 |
| Rep. Bishop, Dan [R-NC-9]* | 10/06/2020 |
| Rep. Hudson, Richard [R-NC-8]* | 10/06/2020 |
| Rep. Budd, Ted [R-NC-13]* | 10/06/2020 |
Background on Local Government and Non-Profit Fire Department Retirement Issue
In 1999 the North Carolina General Assembly passed legislation which allowed career firefighters of non-profit 501 ©3 departments to join the Local Government Retirement System. This law stood until 2002 when an Federal IRS Opinion Letter and a subsequent Attorney General Opinion advised the State they may lose the “public agency” aspect of LGERS if they allowed non-profits as members. This created an imbalance within the ranks of career firefighters and has frustrated the leadership of non-profit fire departments struggling to keep qualified individuals when municipal fire departments can draw them away due to retirement eligibility. It has to be fixed at the Federal level before the NC General Assembly can reenact legislation to allow it here. In October or 2020, we now have a Bill in Congress that will allow NC to press forward if passed.
Tim Bradley
Executive Director
Call for Legislative Advocacy
For additional information contact:
Tim Bradley, Executive Director
AC Rich, Executive Board
Debbie Clary, Governmental Affairs
2020 legislative Session Update
2020
|
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). |
|||
|
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. |
|||
|
Passed |
Julia Howard |
Allow Absentee Ballots/Fire District Election |
|
|
7/19/2019 – Ch. SL 2019-136 |
|||
|
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 |
|||
|
Support |
Harry Warren |
First Responders Act of 2019 |
|
|
5/7/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate |
|||
|
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 |
|||
|
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 |
|||
|
Priority |
Robert Davis |
Provides funding for Search and Rescue Teams |
|
|
3/13/2019 – House – Re-ref Com On Appropriations, Justice and Public Safety |
|||
|
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 |
|||
|
Passed |
Mitchell Setzer |
Under Part X, clarifies the NC Fire and Rescue Commission Rule Making Authority. |
|
|
7/26/2019 – Ch. SL 2019-179 |
|||
|
Priority |
Jason Saine |
Separation Allowance Bill |
|
|
5/7/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate |
|||
|
Passed |
Brenden Jones |
Provides benefits ($100,000) to Public Safety Officer murdered while performing their duties. |
|
|
10/9/2019 – Ch. SL 2019-228 |
|||
|
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 |
|||
|
Support |
David Lewis |
This is a Presumptive Cancer Bill |
|
|
5/6/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate |
|||
|
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 |
|||
|
Passed |
James Adams |
Wildlife Resources Commission Amends |
|
|
8/27/2019 – Ch. SL 2019-204 |
|||
|
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 |
|||
|
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 |
|||
|
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 |
|||
|
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 |
|||
|
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 |
|||
|
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 |
|||
|
Monitor |
Linda Johnson |
2019 Appropriations Act |
|
|
1/14/2020 – Senate – Re-ref Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate |
|||
|
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 |
|||
|
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 |
|||
|
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 |
|||
|
Passed |
Danny Britt |
Move Over Law/Increase Penalties/Amber Lights |
|
|
7/22/2019 – Ch. SL 2019-157 |
|||
|
Priority |
William Jackson |
Separation Allowance |
|
|
3/5/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate |
|||
|
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 |
|||
|
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 |
|||
|
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 |
|||
|
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 |
|||
|
Support |
Paul Newton |
Supplioes Funding for SAR teams, page 3, Item 7. |
|
|
9/18/2019 – Ch. SL 2019-224 |
|||
|
Support |
Jim Burgin |
Licensing Certain Fire Safety Equip. Work |
|
|
4/3/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate |
|||
|
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 |
|||
|
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 |
|||
|
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 |
|||
|
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 |
|||
|
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 |
|||
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
Legislative Day 2020 – Cancelled Due to Covid-19 Concerns
For additional information contact:
Tim Bradley, Executive Director
AC Rich, Executive Board
Debbie Clary, Governmental Affairs
Legislative Advocacy
2020 Session Preparation
The NC General Assembly has recessed until some time in January, and many Legislators will be home over the holiday season. This provides an excellent opportunity to speak with them at events in the community, invite them to your events, or just give them a call at home. When speaking to them there are a couple of key issues that need to be addressed in the upcoming short session. Keep this bullet list handy, and although it isn’t the complete legislative agenda, it contains the critical issues we want to move forward.
– It’s time for the NC General Assembly to pass responsible legislation to protect and provide assistance to firefighters with cancer. Firefighters face a significantly increased risk of cancer. This protection and coverage involves medical care for those diagnosed, financial protection while out of work and facing associated costs, and related disabilities. It also includes additional line of duty deaths by cancer that were included in the budget bill, but are not in place due to veto.
– Provide parity for our career firefighters with law enforcement by passing a Separation Allowance Bill. A study bill passed the House, but was not addressed in the Senate, which give the Senate an opportunity to move it forward by re-establishing the original intent of the bill.
– A generous increase in our Firefighters and Rescue Worker’s Pension Fund. The monthly payment hasn’t increased since 2008.
Don’t miss an opportunity to advocate to your Legislators while they are back home in the community. Let them know what’s important to you as members of the fire service community.
Tim Bradley
Executive Director
NC State Firefighters’ Association
2019/2020 legislative Session Update #282019As 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). |
|||
|
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. |
|||
|
Passed |
Julia Howard |
Allow Absentee Ballots/Fire District Election |
|
|
7/19/2019 – Ch. SL 2019-136 |
|||
|
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 |
|||
|
Support |
Harry Warren |
First Responders Act of 2019 |
|
|
5/7/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate |
|||
|
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 |
|||
|
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 |
|||
|
Priority |
Robert Davis |
Provides funding for Search and Rescue Teams |
|
|
3/13/2019 – House – Re-ref Com On Appropriations, Justice and Public Safety |
|||
|
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 |
|||
|
Passed |
Mitchell Setzer |
Under Part X, clarifies the NC Fire and Rescue Commission Rule Making Authority. |
|
|
7/26/2019 – Ch. SL 2019-179 |
|||
|
Priority |
Jason Saine |
Separation Allowance Bill |
|
|
5/7/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate |
|||
|
Passed |
Brenden Jones |
Provides benefits ($100,000) to Public Safety Officer murdered while performing their duties. |
|
|
10/9/2019 – Ch. SL 2019-228 |
|||
|
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 |
|||
|
Support |
David Lewis |
This is a Presumptive Cancer Bill |
|
|
5/6/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate |
|||
|
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 |
|||
|
Passed |
James Adams |
Wildlife Resources Commission Amends |
|
|
8/27/2019 – Ch. SL 2019-204 |
|||
|
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 |
|||
|
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 |
|||
|
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 |
|||
|
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 |
|||
|
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 |
|||
|
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 |
|||
|
Monitor |
Linda Johnson |
2019 Appropriations Act |
|
|
10/31/2019 – Senate – Re-ref Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate |
|||
|
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 |
|||
|
Passed |
Danny Britt |
Move Over Law/Increase Penalties/Amber Lights |
|
|
7/22/2019 – Ch. SL 2019-157 |
|||
|
Priority |
William Jackson |
Separation Allowance |
|
|
3/5/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate |
|||
|
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 |
|||
|
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 |
|||
|
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 |
|||
|
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 |
|||
|
Support |
Paul Newton |
Supplies Funding for SAR teams, page 3, Item 7. |
|
|
9/18/2019 – Ch. SL 2019-224 |
|||
|
Support |
Jim Burgin |
Licensing Certain Fire Safety Equip. Work |
|
|
4/3/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate |
|||
|
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 |
|||
|
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 |
|||
|
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 |
|||
|
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 #272019As 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 |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Legislative Notice
2019 Session
There was some misinformation concerning the joint Legislative Committee of NCSFA and NCAFC’s support of House Bill 520 yesterday on social media. NCSFA and NCAFC’s joint Legislative Committee and Boards continue to support the passage of HB 520, Firefighters Fighting Cancer Act, better known as Presumptive Cancer. The change from “Support” to “Monitor” within Capital Impact occurred several months ago when the Bill was placed and held in Senate Rules. This designation allows staff to track ANY movement or changes on the bill instantly. You’ll notice the Appropriations Bill is listed the same way so that we can follow any activity to override the veto, since it contains our LODD cancer changes. Unless the bill is listed as “Oppose”, it is supported by our Associations. This is the note provided to Legislators on Legislative Day concerning HB 520.
Support 
HB 520 – Firefighters Fighting Cancer Act – Creates a presumption that for certain type cancers prevalent in the fire service, that they are work related and covered by Workers Compensation.
Tim Bradley
Executive Director, NC State Firefighters’ Association
2019
2019 Legislative Summary
As of Wednesday morning, October 16, 2019.
October 16, 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. One addition is SB 429, (page 3, Item 7) which was ratified recently (not in the summary but is in the bill listing) adds $1,000,000 for SAR funding to the DPS budget. This is also included in the Budget Bill, which the Governor vetoed and has not been overridden at this point. This bill was signed into law by the Governor and is now Ch. SL 2019-224. SB 553 concerning trash collections in apartments was vetoed by the Governor, and HB 253 “Conners Bill” has been signed by the Governor.
NC Bills
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.”
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.
Support
Brenden Jones
Provides benefits ($100,000) to Public Safety Officer murdered while performing their duties.
8/28/2019 – Passed Senate and House
This bill has been signed into law.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.”
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 3rd
This bill has passed both House and Senate and was vetoed by the Governor.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 #252019As 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. |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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 #24
As of Friday morning, September 20, 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. One addition is SB 429, (page 3, Item 7) which was ratified recently (not in the summary but is in the bill listing) adds $1,000,000 for SAR funding to the DPS budget. This is also included in the Budget Bill, which the Governor vetoed and has not been overridden at this point. This bill was signed into law by the Governor and is now Ch. SL 2019-224. |
2019/2020 legislative Session Update #232019As of Thursday morning, September 19, 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. One addition is SB 429, (page 3, Item 7) which was ratified recently (not in the summary but is in the bill listing) adds $1,000,000 for SAR funding to the DPS budget. This is also included in the Budget Bill, which the Governor vetoed and has not been overridden at this point. It is unclear whether SB 429 will be signed by the Governor, but SAR funding has two avenues now to succeed. NC Bills
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.”
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.”
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 3rd 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
NC Bills
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
____________________________________________________________________ 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 #222019As 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 |
|
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. |
|
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. |
|
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. |
|
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. |
|
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. |
|
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. |
|
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. |
|
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.” |
|
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. |
|
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. |
|
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. |
|
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. |
|
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. |
|
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. |
|
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. |
|
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.” |
|
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. |
|
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. |
|
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 |
|
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. |
|
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. |
|
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. |
|
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. |
|
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. |
|
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. |
|
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. |
|
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. |
|
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. |
|
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. |
|
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. |
|
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. |
|
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. |
|
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 3rd 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. |
|
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. |
|
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. |
|
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). |
|
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. |
|
Monitor |
Julia Howard |
Allow Absentee Ballots/Fire District Election |
|
7/19/2019 – Ch. SL 2019-136 |
|
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 |
|
Monitor |
Harry Warren |
First Responders Act of 2019 |
|
5/7/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate |
|
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 |
|
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 |
|
Priority |
Robert Davis |
Provides funding for Search and Rescue Teams |
|
3/13/2019 – House – Re-ref Com On Appropriations, Justice and Public Safety |
|
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 |
|
Support |
Mitchell Setzer |
Under Part X, clarifies the NC Fire and Rescue Commission Rule Making Authority. |
|
7/26/2019 – Ch. SL 2019-179 |
|
Priority |
Jason Saine |
Separation Allowance Bill |
|
5/7/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate |
|
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 |
|
Monitor |
Jeffrey Elmore |
Allows Wilkes County to change district lines on Chapter 69 Tax Districts. |
|
7/8/2019 – Ch. SL 2019-96 |
|
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 |
|
Monitor |
David Lewis |
This is a Presumptive Cancer Nill |
|
5/6/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate |
|
Monitor |
Larry Strickland |
Licensing Certain Fire Safety Equip. Work |
|
6/13/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate |
|
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 |
|
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 |
|
Support |
James Adams |
Wildlife Resources Commission Amends |
|
8/27/2019 – Ch. SL 2019-204 |
|
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 |
|
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 |
|
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 |
|
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 |
|
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 |
|
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 |
|
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 |
|
Monitor |
Linda Johnson |
2019 Appropriations Act |
|
9/11/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate |
|
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 |
|
Support |
Danny Britt |
Move Over Law/Increase Penalties/Amber Lights |
|
7/22/2019 – Ch. SL 2019-157 |
|
Priority |
William Jackson |
Separation Allowance |
|
3/5/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate |
|
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 |
|
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 |
|
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 |
|
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 |
|
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 |
|
Monitor |
Jim Burgin |
Licensing Certain Fire Safety Equip. Work |
|
4/3/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate |
|
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 |
|
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 |
|
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 |
|
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 |
|
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 |
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
2019/2020 legislative SessionUpdate #212019As of Thursday morning, August 29, 2019. The NC General Assembly adjournment of their 2019 biennial session is still open to speculation, either with or without a budget signed by the Governor. Currently they are still in session considering an override of the Governor’s Veto of the budget bill and other last-minute legislation. The budget is the major issue still up in the air, but they are working on smaller bills that address specific portions of the budget. This legislative session has not been a huge success for the fire service. There were a few accomplishments. 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 bring 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. Keep in mind these issues do not go into effect unless the budget is signed by the Governor, or they pass a separate bill addressing them independently. Absentee Ballots will now be allowed in Fire District Elections since (HB 18) passed. The Move Over Law Penalty increases (SB 29) passed. (HB 283), a bill to provide LODD benefits to Public Safety Officers murdered while on duty is still being heard, moving, and may pass. (HB 675), creating a residential change-out inspector passed. (HB 220) passed clarifying the Fire and Rescue Commission’s Rule Making Authority passed. (HB 597), which adopted some of Senator Daniels hunting license provision passed, providing reduced lifetime hunting licenses to active volunteer firefighters serving more than 5 consecutive years passed in Section 12. Specifics have not been worked out, and this is effective in October. (SB 553) is near passage, and affects building code regulation. Section 3 allows door trash collection in multifamily in some instances stepping over the fire code, Section 8 changes rules for Temporary Venues, and Section 15 allows architectural license exemption for small projects. It also includes an interstate study in section 25a for emergency vehicle access involving OSFM. There were some local issues that passed, but most of the major bills we had introduced did not pass. Our GPT increase bill SB 349 in the Senate did not get a hearing. Both Workers Comp Bills HB 622 and HB 520 (PTS and Presumptive Cancer) are stalled in the Senate Rules Committee and were not given a hearing there. The Bailey Act Bill, HB 213 didn’t move out of the House. Representative Harry Warren’s First Responder Bill, HB 118, was gutted pretty good but was also held in Senate Rules, although there was a study including OSFM to study interstate access for fire and rescue vehicles included in SB 553. The Separation Allowance Bill, HB 278, also held in Senate Rules. Senator Warren Daniel’s Bill (SB 416) on benefits for firefighters such as student loan forgiveness, pension increase, and Hunting and Fishing Licenses was heard by committee, but not voted on, but the version heard stripped the tax break and pension increase, so it basically has the hunting license provision in it. A version of this was moved into HB 597. HB 730, which would allow door step trash containers in multi-family dwellings in corridors is held in the Senate Rules currently and hopefully will not be heard, although this issue is considered in SB 553 near passage.. Fireworks, which we opposed, hasn’t moved and did not clear the last House Committee.
This is just a summary. For full bill text you may review the full text of the bills below. Please let us know if you are aware of any other issues passing that you feel needs to be included in these reports. We’ll keep you posted
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 |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Legislative Action Alert
2019 Session
*****FireWorks Being Heard August 6, 2019*****
Tomorrow – Call Your Representative!
House Bill 615, a bill to expand the use and sale of fireworks in North Carolina is being heard tomorrow in The House Regulatory Reform Committee at 11:00. Please call your Representative first thing in the morning and ask them to oppose HB 615. This will increase childhood injuries, increase both wildland and structure fires from fireworks, and is not a good fit for the NC Fire Service. This late in the session, with not many people watching, this bill has a real chance to pass. Please call, email, or text as soon as possible.
2019/2020 legislative Session
Update #20
2019
|
As of Thursday morning, July 25th, 2019. The General Assembly remains in session with limited committee meetings. There still seems to be a stalemate on the budget, and not much else has changed since our last report (#19). There was one amendment yesterday favoring volunteer firefighters. In HB 597, Statutes Governing the Wildlife Commission, an amendment was offered in Senate Finance by Senator Warren Daniel. The amendment provides any volunteer firefighter with five consecutive years of service, including the previous year, the ability to purchase an adult lifetime resident hunting/fishing license at 50% of the applicable license fee. The Bill still has to goes through the Rules Committee, Senate floor, and then it goes to the House for review, and we will follow it as it progresses. On the Federal level, The House passed the 9/11 Victim’s Compensation Fund Reauthorization last week and the Senate passed it Tuesday. It goes to the President now for signature. We’ll update you on any further developments
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 #19
2019
As of Monday morning, July 15th, 2019.
The NC General Assembly could adjourn their 2019 biennial session soon, either with or without a budget signed by the Governor. Currently they are still in session considering an override of the Governor’s Veto of the budget bill and other last-minute legislation. The budget is the major issue still up in the air.
This legislative session was not a huge success for the fire service. There were a few accomplishments. 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 bring the total to six. Keep in mind these issues do not go into effect unless the budget is signed by the Governor.
Absentee Ballots will now be allowed in Fire District Elections since HB 18 passed. The Move Over Law Penalty increases (SB 29) passed, a bill to provide LODD benefits to Public Safety Officer murdered while on duty (HB 283) is still being heard, and creating a residential change-out inspector position (HB 675) passed Friday. There were some local issues that passed, but most of the bills we had introduced did not pass. Our GPT increase bill SB 349 in the Senate did not get a hearing. Both Workers Comp Bills HB 622 and HB 520 (PTS and Presumptive Cancer) are stalled in the Senate Rules Committee and were not given a hearing. The Bailey Act Bill, HB 213 didn’t move out of the House. Representative Harry Warren’s First Responder Bill, HB 118, was gutted pretty good but was also held in Senate Rules. The Separation Allowance Bill, HB 278, also held in Senate Rules. Senator Warren Daniel’s Bill (SB 416) on benefits for firefighters such as student loan forgiveness, pension increase, and Hunting and Fishing Licenses was heard by committee, but not voted on, but the version heard stripped the tax break and pension increase, so it basically has the hunting license provision in it. It did not pass the Senate and is not scheduled.
HB 675 passed and allows a new “change out inspector” for code enforcement. HB 670, which would allow door step trash containers in multi-family dwellings in corridors is held in the Senate Rules currently and hopefully will not be heard.
Fireworks, which we opposed, hasn’t moved or been scheduled.
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.
HR 1241 Support John Larson Volunteer Responder Incentive Protection Act of 2019
2/14/2019 – Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
____________________________________________________________________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 #18
2019
Hasn’t Been an Active Session for the Fire Service
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 – 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 |
| 6/14/2019 – Senate – Re-ref to Redistricting and Elections. If fav, re-ref to Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| 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 | |||
| 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 | Support | Mitchell Setzer | Under Part X, clarifies the NC Fire and Rescue Commission Rule Making Authority. |
| 6/19/2019 – Senate – Re-ref to Commerce and Insurance. If fav, re-ref to Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| 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. |
| 6/19/2019 – Senate – Re-ref Com On Pensions and Retirement and Aging | |||
| H 0349 | Monitor | Jeffrey Elmore | Allows Wilkes County to change district lines on Chapter 69 Tax Districts. |
| 6/25/2019 – Senate – Re-ref Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| 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 Bill |
| 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 | |||
| 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 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 | Monitor | Mark Brody | Creates a “Residential Change-out Inspector Certification under the Code Qualifications Board to inspect change outs in residential homes. |
| 6/25/2019 – Senate – Re-ref Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| H 0730 | Monitor | 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 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 | |||
| 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 |
| 6/17/2019 – House – Re-ref to the Com on Judiciary, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| 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 | |||
| 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 | Support | 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 0519 | Monitor | Jim Burgin | Licensing Certain Fire Safety Equip. Work |
| 4/3/2019 – Senate – Ref To 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 | |||
| S 0655 | 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 | |||
____________________________________________________________________
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 #17
2019
Legislative Day A Success
2019/2020 legislative Session Update #16
2019
Legislative Day A Success
Legislative Action Alert
2019 Session
*****Legislative Day – May 15, 2019*****
Tomorrow – We Need You There!
Where: Meet at William G. Ross Jr. Environmental Conference Center on the fourth floor of the Nature Research Center wing of the Museum, 121 West Jones St, Raleigh, NC 27601
When: May 15, 2019 at 8am
Parking: The William G. Ross Jr. Environmental Conference Center is located on the fourth floor of the Nature Research Center wing of the NC Museum of Natural Sciences (the building with the globe). Parking for the Nature Research Center is available along Jones and Edenton Streets and in the Green Square Parking deck behind the Nature Research Center, with entrances on Edenton Street. Additional information and parking maps may be found here: http://naturalsciences.org/visit/directions-parking and http://naturalsciences.org/docs/Directions_and_Parking_map_2013.pdf.
Tomorrow is Legislative Day. Whether you are attending (we hope you are), or wish to call your Legislator at home, the following is a draft of information that will be provided as talking points to attendees. Obviously we can’t include every discussion point or the paper would be to long. Some may wish to add their own, but these are summary points we would like the members of the General Assembly to hear. If you are attending, look them over. There will be copies provided next week. If not, use them when you call your representatives.
NC Fire Service Legislative Day Discussion Points
May 15, 2019
Support Senate Bill 349 – Protect Benefit for Firefighters Act
This bill increases the Gross Premium Assessment on Fire and Lightning Insurance from .074 to .125. This will provide incremental increases in the Firefighter’s Relief Fund, Volunteer Safety Workers Compensation Fund, and Volunteer Fire Department Grants. Most importantly, it will provide necessary increases that can support stabilization, and perhaps growth in our Fire and Rescue Workers Pension fund. Currently there is a deficit to the amount needed in the pension program.
– A small increase in the GPT from .75 to 1.125 is approximately $1 to $4 on a home owners insurance policy.
– Volunteers save the State over $1 billion in local tax dollars.
– Over 80% of the fire departments in North Carolina have improved their insurance ratings over the last 10 years, saving homeowners many times more than this small increase with cost. This same reduction in insurance costs has reduced the amount of money going into these funds, so improving our ratings has hurt our benefit programs.
Support Senate Bill 416 – Recruit/Retain Volunteer Firefighters
This bill provides a loan forgiveness program for firefighters taking degree work in Fire Protection at the Department of Community Colleges; provides free hunting and fishing licenses for being a volunteer firefighter; a reduced property tax to eligible volunteer firefighters; and increases the Fire and Rescue Pension to $180 for fire and rescue personnel.
– Volunteers save the State over $1 billion in local tax dollars annually.
– We haven’t had a pension increase since 2008, and it was only $3 then.
– Everyone’s talking about recruitment and retention issues, and this is a KEY component.
– 30,250 volunteer and 16,049 career firefighters benefit from this bill in some way.
– Roughly 40% of volunteers would benefit from Hunting and Fishing licenses.
Support House Bill 159/Senate Bill 396 – Search and Rescue Funds
Provides funding for NC Search and Rescue Teams through the Department Public Safety. These teams provide specialized rescue to all areas of the State upon request.
– This funding is currently in the House budget, and it is critical to keep it there.
Support House Bill 278 – Study Parity for First Responders
This bill provides a committee of combined Senate and House members to study firefighters in the State and Local Government Retirement System, possibly allowing them to retire at age 50 with 30 years’ service. The study considers a wage supplement until they reach the age, they are eligible for unreduced social security benefits, and how to fund the provision. Law enforcement officers have had this benefit since the 1980’s. The supplement allows a firefighter to afford retirement until they can receive social security benefits.
– Firefighting is a stressful job, and dangerous. After 30 years of service firefighters’ chances of heart attack, contracting cancer, and physical injury go up dramatically.
– This issue deserves a fair review and passage.
Support House Bill 466 – Firefighters’ Line of Duty Diseases/funds
This bill adds 3 additional types of cancers bringing the total covered for Line of Duty Death to seven (7). It also appropriates funds for the additional LODD’s. This is currently included in the House Budget.
– This funding is currently in the House budget, and it is critical to keep it there.
– Firefighters have an 18% higher rate of occurrence in many of these cancer types.
– This bill simply adds 3 additional types and clarifies one.
Support House Bill 622 – Provides Workers Comp for PTS in First Responders
Provides Workers Compensation for PTS in firefighters, law enforcement, and other emergency responders within 1 year of occurrence for certain types of exposures.
– PTS and suicide related incidents are increasing dramatically in the emergency services.
– PTS is now only covered if it is in conjunction with a physical injury.
– The bill provides protection against fraudulent uses.
Support House Bill 520 – Firefighters Fighting Cancer Act
Creates a presumption for certain type cancers prevalent in the fire service, they are considered work related and are covered by Workers Compensation.
– Firefighters have an 18% higher rate of occurrence in many of these cancer types.
– This bill puts the burden of proof on the carrier, and not the firefighter.
– The bill provides protection against fraudulent uses by requiring physicals.
Support House Bill 213- Provide Equal Income Tax Treatment
This bill creates an equal treatment of Government employees in North Carolina by phasing in the same income tax exemptions for State and Local Employees that were vested before 1989. This is a huge benefit for our career, state, and local firefighters. This benefit includes all state, local, and military employees in NC.
Oppose House Bill 6125 and SB 566 – NC Consumer Fireworks Safety Act
Increases the size, use and availability of consumer fireworks in NC. This bill will result in increased injuries and fires across NC.
– The bill does not increase safety, but actually will increase injuries and fires
Oppose SB 374 – Repeal Risky Retirement Payments
This bill will eliminate three benefit payment options to members who retire after July 1, 2020. The payment options being eliminated are: Option 4: Social Security Leveling; Option 6-2: Modified Joint & Survivor – 100% for named beneficiary with pop-up to maximum allowance if beneficiary predeceases the member; and Option 6-3: Modified Joint & Survivor – 50% for named beneficiary with pop-up to maximum allowance if beneficiary predeceases the member.
– These are benefits for our retired career employees, and should not be removed.
Thanks
Tim Bradley
Executive Director, NC State Firefighters’ Association
Legislative Day – May 15, 2019
Fire Service Legislative Day is May 15, 2019 – below are the handouts for the legislators and the discussion points for you as you walk around. We will have these printed out for you when you arrive on Wednesday morning.
2019 Legislative day Handout 5.10.2019 File Reduction
2019 Legislative Day Discussion Points 5.10.2019 File Reduction
Where: Meet at William G. Ross Jr. Environmental Conference Center on the fourth floor of the Nature Research Center wing of the Museum, 121 West Jones St, Raleigh, NC 27601
When: May 15, 2019 at 8am
Parking: The William G. Ross Jr. Environmental Conference Center is located on the fourth floor of the Nature Research Center wing of the NC Museum of Natural Sciences (the building with the globe). Parking for the Nature Research Center is available along Jones and Edenton Streets and in the Green Square Parking deck behind the Nature Research Center, with entrances on Edenton Street. Additional information and parking maps may be found here: http://naturalsciences.org/visit/directions-parking and http://naturalsciences.org/docs/Directions_and_Parking_map_2013.pdf.
Legislative Action Alert
2019 Session
Wednesday, May 15, 2019 is Legislative Day. Whether you are attending (we hope you are), or wish to call your Legislator at home, the following is a draft of information that will be provided as talking points next wednesday to attendees. Obviously we can’t include every discussion point or the paper would be to long. Some may wish to add their own, but these are summary points we would like the members of the General Assembly to hear. If you are attending, look them over. There will be copies provided next week. If not, use them when you call your representatives.
NC Fire Service Legislative Day Discussion Points
May 15, 2019
Support Senate Bill 349 – Protect Benefit for Firefighters Act
This bill increases the Gross Premium Assessment on Fire and Lightning Insurance from .074 to .125. This will provide incremental increases in the Firefighter’s Relief Fund, Volunteer Safety Workers Compensation Fund, and Volunteer Fire Department Grants. Most importantly, it will provide necessary increases that can support stabilization, and perhaps growth in our Fire and Rescue Workers Pension fund. Currently there is a deficit to the amount needed in the pension program.
– A small increase in the GPT from .75 to 1.125 is approximately $1 to $4 on a home owners insurance policy.
– Volunteers save the State over $1 billion in local tax dollars.
– Over 80% of the fire departments in North Carolina have improved their insurance ratings over the last 10 years, saving homeowners many times more than this small increase with cost. This same reduction in insurance costs has reduced the amount of money going into these funds, so improving our ratings has hurt our benefit programs.
Support Senate Bill 416 – Recruit/Retain Volunteer Firefighters
This bill provides a loan forgiveness program for firefighters taking degree work in Fire Protection at the Department of Community Colleges; provides free hunting and fishing licenses for being a volunteer firefighter; a reduced property tax to eligible volunteer firefighters; and increases the Fire and Rescue Pension to $180 for fire and rescue personnel.
– Volunteers save the State over $1 billion in local tax dollars annually.
– We haven’t had a pension increase since 2008, and it was only $3 then.
– Everyone’s talking about recruitment and retention issues, and this is a KEY component.
– 30,250 volunteer and 16,049 career firefighters benefit from this bill in some way.
l0 level1 lfo1′>
– Roughly 40% of volunteers would benefit from Hunting and Fishing licenses.
Support House Bill 159/Senate Bill 396 – Search and Rescue Funds
Provides funding for NC Search and Rescue Teams through the Department Public Safety. These teams provide specialized rescue to all areas of the State upon request.
– This funding is currently in the House budget, and it is critical to keep it there.
Support House Bill 278 – Study Parity for First Responders
This bill provides a committee of combined Senate and House members to study firefighters in the State and Local Government Retirement System, possibly allowing them to retire at age 50 with 30 years’ service. The study considers a wage supplement until they reach the age, they are eligible for unreduced social security benefits, and how to fund the provision. Law enforcement officers have had this benefit since the 1980’s. The supplement allows a firefighter to afford retirement until they can receive social security benefits.
– Firefighting is a stressful job, and dangerous. After 30 years of service firefighters’ chances of heart attack, contracting cancer, and physical injury go up dramatically.
– This issue deserves a fair review and passage.
Support House Bill 466 – Firefighters’ Line of Duty Diseases/funds
This bill adds 3 additional types of cancers bringing the total covered for Line of Duty Death to seven (7). It also appropriates funds for the additional LODD’s. This is currently included in the House Budget.
– This funding is currently in the House budget, and it is critical to keep it there.
– Firefighters have an 18% higher rate of occurrence in many of these cancer types.
– This bill simply adds 3 additional types and clarifies one.
Support House Bill 622 – Provides Workers Comp for PTS in First Responders
Provides Workers Compensation for PTS in firefighters, law enforcement, and other emergency responders within 1 year of occurrence for certain types of exposures.
– PTS and suicide related incidents are increasing dramatically in the emergency services.
– PTS is now only covered if it is in conjunction with a physical injury.
– The bill provides protection against fraudulent uses.
Support House Bill 520 – Firefighters Fighting Cancer Act
Creates a presumption for certain type cancers prevalent in the fire service, they are considered work related and are covered by Workers Compensation.
– Firefighters have an 18% higher rate of occurrence in many of these cancer types.
– This bill puts the burden of proof on the carrier, and not the firefighter.
– The bill provides protection against fraudulent uses by requiring physicals.
Support House Bill 213- Provide Equal Income Tax Treatment
This bill creates an equal treatment of Government employees in North Carolina by phasing in the same income tax exemptions for State and Local Employees that were vested before 1989. This is a huge benefit for our career, state, and local firefighters. This benefit includes all state, local, and military employees in NC.
Oppose House Bill 6125 and SB 566 – NC Consumer Fireworks Safety Act
Increases the size, use and availability of consumer fireworks in NC. This bill will result in increased injuries and fires across NC.
– The bill does not increase safety, but actually will increase injuries and fires
Oppose SB 374 – Repeal Risky Retirement Payments
This bill will eliminate three benefit payment options to members who retire after July 1, 2020. The payment options being eliminated are: Option 4: Social Security Leveling; Option 6-2: Modified Joint & Survivor – 100% for named beneficiary with pop-up to maximum allowance if beneficiary predeceases the member; and Option 6-3: Modified Joint & Survivor – 50% for named beneficiary with pop-up to maximum allowance if beneficiary predeceases the member.
– These are benefits for our retired career employees, and should not be removed.
Thanks,
Tim Bradley
Executive Director, NC State Firefighters’ Association
Legislative Action Alert
2019 Session
We need your help to help you!
Please call or email your Senator today.
There are two bills in the Senate that have not gone before committee that affect the majority of firefighters in North Carolina. There are other bills that we will ask for your assistance on, but we wanted to make a focused run on these two bills.
SB 349 introduced by Senator Tillman increases the Gross Premium Assessment. This is the assessment on fire insurance policies that funds our Relief Fund, Volunteer Safety Workers Comp Fund, Volunteer Fire Department Grants, and the largest portion goes to the General Fund to support our Fire and Rescue Workers Pension Fund. Here are some talking points:
– The increase will add only $1 to $4 to average insurance polices
– Over 90% of the fire departments in NC have reduced their insurance grade over the last decade saving homeowners tremendously more than that. In fact, these reductions in grade have actually reduced the monies available for these programs since people pay less insurance.
– This action stabilizes our programs, particularly our Fire and Rescue Workers Pension fund, allows for growth, which helps recruitment and retention on volunteer departments and provides an added benefit to our career firefighters.
– It is small increase that means so much to firefighters.
SB 416 introduced by Senator Daniels provides funding for secondary education in fire service careers, increases the fire and rescue pension from $170 to $180 for career and volunteer, and other benefits that help recruit and retain volunteer firefighters. Talking points are:
– It is estimated that volunteer firefighters save local government $1.5 billion annually in salaries. Recruiting and retaining volunteers is a savings to taxpayers, and keeps our communities safe.
– The last increase to the Fire and Rescue Workers Pension Fund was in 2008, increasing $3 from $167 to $170. This bill would increase it to $180.
– The $10 increase requested in this bill also increases the premium by $5, which was also increased $5 in 1998. The $5 increase in premiums for a $10 increase in benefits is a great deal for firefighters, and would mean roughly 40% of this fund is covered by premiums, and the rest comes from Gross Premium Assessments through the General Fund.
These two bills are important to all firefighters in North Carolina, stabilizes and builds our Pension Program, and helps recruit and retain firefighters. CALL OR EMAIL YOUR SEANTOR TODAY.
Thanks
Tim Bradley
Executive Director, NC State Firefighters’ Association
2019/2020 Legislative Session Update #15
2019
The 2019/2020 Legislative Session has been active the last week trying to complete bills subject to the crossover deadline of May 9th. These are bills that do not require state funding and must cross from one chamber to the other to be considered for funding. Remember, you can view a complete text of the bill or a summary by clicking on the bill number in blue. It also indicates our stance on each bill.
Don’t forget to put Fire Service Legislative Day on your calendar. It’s critical we have a good crowd this year. It is critical with all the bills that we have a large group representing the fire service.
North Carolina Fire Service Legislative Day – May 15, 2019
Where: Meet at William G. Ross Jr. Environmental Conference Center on the fourth floor of the Nature Research Center wing of the Museum, 121 West Jones St, Raleigh, NC 27601
When: May 15, 2019 at 8am
Parking: The William G. Ross Jr. Environmental Conference Center is located on the fourth floor of the Nature Research Center wing of the NC Museum of Natural Sciences (the building with the globe). Parking for the Nature Research Center is available along Jones and Edenton Streets and in the Green Square Parking deck behind the Nature Research Center, with entrances on Edenton Street. Additional information and parking maps may be found here: http://naturalsciences.org/visit/directions-parking and http://naturalsciences.org/docs/Directions_and_Parking_map_2013.pdf.
If you have any questions, or if your member needs additional information, please contact:
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 – 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 |
| 3/21/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| 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 |
| 4/15/2019 – House – Re-ref Com On Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| H 0120 | Support | Debra Conrad | Clarify Fire District Funding Eligibility |
| 4/16/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| H 0144 | Support | Harold Corbin | Prohibits using a phone or handheld device while driving. |
| 5/6/2019 – House – Placed On Cal For 05/07/2019 | |||
| 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 | Support | Mitchell Setzer | Under Part X, clarifies the NC Fire and Rescue Commission Rule Making Authority. |
| 5/6/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| H 0278 | Priority | Jason Saine | Separation Allowance Bill |
| 5/6/2019 – House – Placed On Cal For 05/07/2019 | |||
| H 0283 | Support | Brenden Jones | Provides benefits ($100,000) to Public Safety Officer murdered while performing their duties. |
| 3/21/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| H 0349 | Monitor | Jeffrey Elmore | Allows Wilkes County to change district lines on Chapter 69 Tax Districts. |
| 4/16/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| 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 Bill |
| 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 |
| 4/11/2019 – House – Re-ref Com On Finance | |||
| 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 | |||
| 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 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. |
| 4/8/2019 – House – Ref to the Com on Judiciary, 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 | Monitor | Mark Brody | Creates a “Residential Change-out Inspector Certification under the Code Qualifications Board to inspect change outs in residential homes. |
| 5/6/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate | |||
| H 0730 | Monitor | 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 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 | |||
| 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 |
| 4/18/2019 – House – Re-ref Com On Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House | |||
| 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 | |||
| 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 | Support | 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. |
| 4/1/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On 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 | |||
| 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 0655 | 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 | |||
____________________________________________________________________
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 #132019The 2019/2020 Legislative Session continues to be an active one for the fire and emergency services, with close to 40 bills affecting the fire service indirectly or directly. A complete list of all bills we are following are listed below. Remember, you can view a complete text of the bill or a summary by clicking on the bill number in blue. It also indicates our stance on each bill. This week and next the House and Senate will be taking some time off for Spring Break, but activities will continue. Most of our critical bills are not subject to crossover (having to pass one chamber before May 9th), but can pop up on the calendar at any time. Budget activity will be heavy this week and next as the House prepares their version to go over to the Senate. Several of the NCSFA and NCAFC’s Board members, as well as other fire service members, are heading to CFSI in Washington to work on Federal Bills this week, but we’ll be watching the NC Legislative Calendar as well. Don’t forget to put Fire Service Legislative Day on your calendar. It’s critical we have a good crowd this year. It is critical with all the bills that we have a large group representing the fire service. North Carolina Fire Service Legislative Day – May 15, 2019 Where: Meet at William G. Ross Jr. Environmental Conference Center on the fourth floor of the Nature Research Center wing of the Museum, 121 West Jones St, Raleigh, NC 27601 When: May 15, 2019 at 8am
Parking: The William G. Ross Jr. Environmental Conference Center is located on the fourth floor of the Nature Research Center wing of the NC Museum of Natural Sciences (the building with the globe). Parking for the Nature Research Center is available along Jones and Edenton Streets and in the Green Square Parking deck behind the Nature Research Center, with entrances on Edenton Street. Additional information and parking maps may be found here: http://naturalsciences.org/visit/directions-parking and http://naturalsciences.org/docs/Directions_and_Parking_map_2013.pdf.
If you have any questions, or if your member needs additional information, please contact: 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 #12
2019
The 2019/2020 Legislative Session continues to be an active one for the fire and emergency services, with close to 40 bills affecting the fire service indirectly or directly. A complete list of all bills we are following are listed below. Remember, you can view a complete text of the bill or a summary by clicking on the bill number in blue. It also indicates our stance on each bill.
North Carolina Fire Service Legislative Day – May 15, 2019
Where: Meet at William G. Ross Jr. Environmental Conference Center on the fourth floor of the Nature Research Center wing of the Museum, 121 West Jones St, Raleigh, NC 27601
When: May 15, 2019 at 8am
Parking: The William G. Ross Jr. Environmental Conference Center is located on the fourth floor of the Nature Research Center wing of the NC Museum of Natural Sciences (the building with the globe). Parking for the Nature Research Center is available along Jones and Edenton Streets and in the Green Square Parking deck behind the Nature Research Center, with entrances on Edenton Street. Additional information and parking maps may be found here: http://naturalsciences.org/visit/directions-parking and http://naturalsciences.org/docs/Directions_and_Parking_map_2013.pdf.
If you have any questions, or if your member needs additional information, please contact:
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
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
Julia Howard
Allow Absentee Ballots/Fire District Election
3/21/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate
H 0081
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
Harry Warren
First Responders Act of 2019
3/27/2019 – House – Re-ref Com On Finance
H 0120
Debra Conrad
Clarify Fire District Funding Eligibility
4/11/2019 – House – Placed On Cal For 04/15/2019
H 0144
Harold Corbin
Prohibits using a phone or handheld device while driving.
3/19/2019 – House – Re-ref to the Com on Judiciary, if favorable, Insurance, if favorable, Finance, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House
H 0159
Robert Davis
Provides funding for Search and Rescue Teams
3/13/2019 – House – Re-ref Com On Appropriations, Justice and Public Safety
H 0213
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
Mitchell Setzer
Under Part X, clarifies the NC Fire and Rescue Commission Rule Making Authority.
4/4/2019 – House – Re-ref to the Com on Finance, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House
H 0278
Jason Saine
Separation Allowance Bill
3/7/2019 – House – Ref to the Com on Finance, if favorable, Pensions and Retirement, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House
H 0283
Brenden Jones
Provides benefits ($100,000) to Public Safety Officer murdered while performing their duties.
3/21/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate
H 0349
Jeffrey Elmore
Allows Wilkes County to change district lines on Chapter 69 Tax Districts.
4/11/2019 – House – Placed On Cal For 04/15/2019
H 0466
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
David Lewis
This is a Presumptive Cancer Nill
4/1/2019 – House – Ref to the Com on Health, if favorable, State and Local Government, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House
H 0553
Larry Strickland
Licensing Certain Fire Safety Equip. Work
4/11/2019 – House – Re-ref Com On Finance
H 0560
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
H 0573
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 0606
Allen McNeill
Increases Penalties for certain types of Arson including Commercial
4/8/2019 – House – Ref to the Com on Judiciary, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House
H 0615
John Szoka
Increases the use and size of consumer fireworks. Sister bill to SB 566.
4/8/2019 – House – Ref to the Com on Judiciary, if favorable, Finance, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House
H 0622
Holly Grange
Provides Workers Compensation for PTS in firefighters within 1 year of occurrence for certain types of exposures.
4/8/2019 – House – Ref to the Com on Judiciary, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House
H 0631
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
Mark Brody
Creates a “Residential Change-out Inspector Certification under the Code Qualifications Board to inspect change outs in residential homes.
4/11/2019 – House – Ref to the Com on State and Local Government, if favorable, Regulatory Reform, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House
H 0730
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.
4/11/2019 – House – Filed
S 0020
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
Danny Britt
Move Over Law/Increase Penalties
2/26/2019 – 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
S 0179
William Jackson
Separation Allowance
3/5/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate
S 0334
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
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
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
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
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.
4/1/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate
S 0519
Jim Burgin
Licensing Certain Fire Safety Equip. Work
4/3/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate
S 0566
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
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
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 0655
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
____________________________________________________________________
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
Legislative Information Notice
2019 Session
Yesterday there was some incorrect and misleading information released concerning HB 573 that the NCSFA/NCAFC Legislative Committee had asked Representatives Shepard, Torbett, and Saine to sponsor. We wanted to correct any confusion or inaccuracies regarding the bill the post/note may have created.
HB 573, requested by NCSFA/NCAFC’s Legislative Committee, provides for PTSD coverage of First Responders in Workers Compensation, and was modeled after a bill that recently passed in Florida and was signed into law there. After the bill was amended in Florida to contain specific conditions or events, which HB 573 was modeled after, the League of Cities and Workers Compensation Carriers in Florida dropped their opposition. It should also be noted that some of their success was because of the Parkland shooting that occurred just before the bill was heard. It was our hope that modeling a bill after a similar one had passed in Florida gave us the best opportunity to be successful in a State concerned over the escalating cost of providing workers compensation.
The note that went out yesterday inaccurately indicated that HB 573 would weaken NC workers compensation laws for firefighters. Since PTS is not currently covered by WC except in conjunction with another injury, that is hardly the fact, and inaccurate. HB 573 would give firefighters PTS coverage independent of another injury that they do not currently have, if it could be tied to one or more actual traumatic events in one of the categories listed.
It is not, however, as all inclusive as a bill promoted by the Professional Firefighters and Paramedics of NC, HB 622. While HB 573 will not be as expansive or as broad, the NCSFA/NCAFC’s Legislative Committee felt the language in HB 573 had the best chance of passage in a State where legislators and employers are concerned about escalating costs of Worker’s Compensation coverage. It is also noted by close review of the two bills that one of the primary sponsors, Representative Saine, is on both bills. Both bills would benefit firefighters, but neither has any impact unless it is passed into law.
The NCSFA/NCAFC’s Legislative Committee will provide support for both bills. We simply asked for the introduction of a bill initially that we felt had the best chance of passage. HB 622 has almost the same wording as HB 573, but leaves out the listing of qualifying events that contributed to the PTS such as the death of a minor, death of a fellow responder, witnessing a suicide, graphic or bodily harm that shocks the conscious, etc., etc. These are the qualifying events that removed much of the opposition in Florida.
Thank you,
Tim Bradley
Executive Director, NC State Firefighters’ Association
2019/2020 legislative Session Update #11
2019
The 2019/2020 Legislative Session continues to be an active one for the fire and emergency services. Several Bills were introduced last week late in the week, including a House Bill identical to the Senate Bill on Consumer Fireworks, an increase in arson penalties, and funding for fire departments who respond to State lands. Also introduced was a bill to provide workers compensation for certain types of PTS in firefighters occurring within a year of exposure. A complete list of all bills we are following are listed below. Remember, you can view a complete text of the bill or a summary. It also indicates our stance on each bill.
Don’t forget Fire Service Legislative Day May 15th. It will be critical for us to have a great showing in numbers. We’ll meet at 8:00 that morning at the Science Museum on Jones Street as in previous years before heading over to the Legislative Buildings to visit with our representatives. If you are truly interested in seeing our legislative initiatives passed, this is a great way to support that effort. A personal visit to your Representatives office speaks volumes. We will have printed material for you to provide to support your discussions.
If you have any questions, or if your member needs additional information, please contact:
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
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
Julia Howard
Allow Absentee Ballots/Fire District Election
3/21/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate
H 0081
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
Harry Warren
First Responders Act of 2019
3/27/2019 – House – Re-ref Com On Finance
H 0120
Debra Conrad
Clarify Fire District Funding Eligibility
3/21/2019 – House – Re-ref Com On Finance
H 0144
Harold Corbin
Prohibits using a phone or handheld device while driving.
3/19/2019 – House – Re-ref to the Com on Judiciary, if favorable, Insurance, if favorable, Finance, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House
H 0159
Robert Davis
Provides funding for Search and Rescue Teams
3/13/2019 – House – Re-ref Com On Appropriations, Justice and Public Safety
H 0213
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
Mitchell Setzer
Under Part X, clarifies the NC Fire and Rescue Commission Rule Making Authority.
4/4/2019 – House – Re-ref to the Com on Finance, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House
H 0278
Jason Saine
Separation Allowance Bill
3/7/2019 – House – Ref to the Com on Finance, if favorable, Pensions and Retirement, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House
H 0283
Brenden Jones
Provides benefits ($100,000) to Public Safety Officer murdered while performing their duties.
3/21/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate
H 0466
Dennis Riddell
Adds 3 new Cancers to Line of Duty Death for firefighters
3/28/2019 – House – Ref to the Com on Insurance, if favorable, Appropriations, General Government, if favorable, Appropriations, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House
H 0520
David Lewis
This is a Presumptive Cancer Nill
4/1/2019 – House – Ref to the Com on Health, if favorable, State and Local Government, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House
H 0553
Larry Strickland
Licensing Certain Fire Safety Equip. Work
4/3/2019 – House – Ref to the Com on Insurance, if favorable, Finance, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House
H 0560
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
H 0606
Allen McNeill
Increases Penalties for certain types of Arson including Commercial
4/4/2019 – House – Filed
H 0615
John Szoka
Increases the use and size of consumer fireworks. Sister bill to SB 566.
4/4/2019 – House – Filed
H 0622
Holly Grange
Provides Workers Compensation for PTS in firefighters within 1 year of occurrence for certain types of exposures.
4/4/2019 – House – Filed
S 0020
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
Danny Britt
Move Over Law/Increase Penalties
2/26/2019 – 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
S 0179
William Jackson
Separation Allowance
3/5/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate
S 0334
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
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
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
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
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.
4/1/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate
S 0519
Jim Burgin
Licensing Certain Fire Safety Equip. Work
4/3/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate
S 0566
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
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
____________________________________________________________________
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 #10
2019
The 2019/2020 Legislative Session continues to be an active one for the fire and emergency services. Last week I briefly mentioned 5 new bills that were introduced affecting the fire service, but was unable to give a complete description. Here is an overview of each.
HB 466 Firefighters Line of Duty Diseases/Funds
This bill adds 3 additional types of cancer to LODD benefits (Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, Brain and other nervous system cancer, Multiple myelmoa), and changes Intestinal to Cancer of the small intestine. The NCSFA fully supports this bill.
HB 520 Firefighters Fighting Cancer Act
This is a Presumptive Cancer Bill for Firefighters that provides workers compensation on a presumptive basis for 9 types of cancer.
SB 349 Protect benefits for Firefighters Act
This is an Increase in the Gross Premium Tax on Fire and Lightning Insurance. The increase will provide additional funding to Protect our benefits such as the relief fund, grants, workers compensation, and the Fire and Rescue Workers Pension Fund. While it will provider incremental increase to relief fund, workers comp, and grants, the primary increase will be to stabilize our Pension Program and provide for increases in benefits in the future.
SB 396 State Search and Rescue Funding
Provides funding for search and Rescue Teams and is a sister or companion bill to HB 159 introduced in the House.
SB 416 Recruit/Retain Volunteer Firefighters
This is a Recruitment and Retention Bill for firefighters that provides several benefits for volunteering. Part I is an introduction. Part II provides for a Firefighters Fellowship Program that will create a loan forgiveness program for degrees through the Community College System. Part III provides free hunting and fishing licenses to members who are on the roster of a volunteer department the previous year, and provides a lifetime hunting and fishing license to members on the roster of a volunteer department for 10 consecutive years. Rules would be defined by the Wildlife Commission. Part IV provides a 25% reduction in property taxes for a volunteer firefighter who has served more than five years. Part V provides for a $5 increase in monthly premiums in the fire and rescue workers pension fund, but also provides a $10 monthly increase in benefits.
As a reminder, here are our legislative priorities for this session. As you can see we have many of them covered under active legislation.
Recognizing PTS as a Workers Comp Illness
Equal Treatment of Government Employees – Tax Exemption on Retirement
Separation Allowance for Career Firefighters
Possible Fee Exemption for Community College Degree Programs
Some Income Tax Exemption for Volunteer Fire Service members
Continuation of SAR Funding
Continuing to add cancer benefits for LODD
Defining “Organized Fire Department” in fire tax district laws.
Monitor and Oppose any Reduction of Real Value before the AG and Forestry Committee (Old SB 711)
Building code issues that we would want to oppose
Fireworks that we would want to oppose
We’ll post these bills as they are introduced.
If you have any questions, or if your member needs additional information, please contact:
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
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
Julia Howard
Allow Absentee Ballots/Fire District Election
3/21/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate
H 0081
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
Harry Warren
First Responders Act of 2019
3/27/2019 – House – Re-ref Com On Finance
H 0120
Debra Conrad
Clarify Fire District Funding Eligibility
3/21/2019 – House – Re-ref Com On Finance
H 0144
Harold Corbin
Prohibits using a phone or handheld device while driving.
3/19/2019 – House – Re-ref to the Com on Judiciary, if favorable, Insurance, if favorable, Finance, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House
H 0159
Robert Davis
Provides funding for Search and Rescue Teams
3/13/2019 – House – Re-ref Com On Appropriations, Justice and Public Safety
H 0213
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
Mitchell Setzer
Under Part X, clarifies the NC Fire and Rescue Commission Rule Making Authority.
2/28/2019 – House – Ref to the Com on Insurance, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House
H 0278
Jason Saine
Separation Allowance Bill
3/7/2019 – House – Ref to the Com on Finance, if favorable, Pensions and Retirement, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House
H 0283
Brenden Jones
Provides benefits ($100,000) to Public Safety Officer murdered while performing their duties.
3/21/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate
H 0466
Dennis Riddell
Adds 3 new Cancers to Line of Duty Death for firefighters
3/28/2019 – House – Ref to the Com on Insurance, if favorable, Appropriations, General Government, if favorable, Appropriations, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House
H 0520
David Lewis
This is a Presumptive Cancer Nill
4/1/2019 – House – Ref to the Com on Health, if favorable, State and Local Government, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House
S 0020
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
Danny Britt
Move Over Law/Increase Penalties
2/26/2019 – 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
S 0179
William Jackson
Separation Allowance
3/5/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate
S 0334
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
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
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
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
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.
4/1/2019 – 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
Federal Legislation Contact Request
Are you a career employee on a non-profit or non-municipal fire department in Congressman Holdings district??
We need you to call Congressman Holding’s Office and pleasantly ask him to support an initiative being undertaken by Congressman Patrick McHenry to correct some imbalances affecting non-profit,traditionally volunteer fire departments in North Carolina and around the nation. Ask him to have his tax staffer Matt Stross meet with Dave Finger from the National Volunteer Fire Council concerning the Congressman’s membership on the House Ways and Means Committee. This is the committee likely to handle the issue first.
In short, non-profit fire departments over the years that serve areas rapidly developing have faced the need to hire career staff to meet response needs. Much of this is caused by a reduction of volunteers, increased call volume, and lack of available manpower during daytime hours. Most serve non incorporated areas in counties, but a few serve municipalities under contract. Since they are non-profit, they lack two key issues that municipal fire departments are afforded; local government retirement; and relief from Fair Labor Standards Act overtime requirements on shift work. As such, attracting and retaining firefighters is difficult, and it sets up an inequity between benefits for two classes of career firefighters that have the same requirements and provide the same governmental service.
When you contact him, advise them that Representative Patrick McHenry (NC) is coordinating this issue, it is bipartisan, and that it will benefit volunteer fire departments that see the need to hire career firefighters to handle response needs. This is a statewide issue that is becoming increasingly difficult as these non-profit fire departments see their communities grow and effects fire departments across the country. His attention is crucial to the issue.
Tim Bradley, EFO, CFO, FIFireE
Executive Director, NCSFA
2019/2020 legislative Session Update #9
2019
The 2019/2020 Legislative Session continued this week. We saw several bills introduced that I wanted to briefly share.
HB 466 Adds 3 additional types of cancer to LODD.
HB 520 Is a Presumptive Cancer Bill for Firefighters.
SB 349 Is an Increase in funding to Protect our benefits
SB 396 Also provides funding for search and Rescue Teams
SB 416 is a Recruitment and Retention Bill for firefighters that provides several benefits for volunteering. I’ll provide more as we follow these bills.
As a reminder, here are our legislative priorities for this session.
Potential State Legislative issues for the fire service this year include:
The following is a summary of issues discussed by our NCSFA/NCAFC Legislative Committee that we hope to work on this year. As Bills are introduced for these areas we will keep you posted as well.
Recognizing PTS as a Workers Comp Illness
Equal Treatment of Government Employees – Tax Exemption on Retirement
Separation Allowance for Career Firefighters
Possible Fee Exemption for Community College Degree Programs
Some Income Tax Exemption for Volunteer Fire Service members
Continuation of SAR Funding
Continuing to add cancer benefits for LODD
Defining “Organized Fire Department” in fire tax district laws.
Monitor and Oppose any Reduction of Real Value before the AG and Forestry Committee (Old SB 711)
Building code issues that we would want to oppose
Fireworks that we would want to oppose
We’ll post these bills as they are introduced.
If you have any questions, or if your member needs additional information, please contact:
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
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
Julia Howard
Allow Absentee Ballots/Fire District Election
3/21/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate
H 0081
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
Harry Warren
First Responders Act of 2019
3/27/2019 – House – Re-ref Com On Finance
H 0120
Debra Conrad
Clarify Fire District Funding Eligibility
3/21/2019 – House – Re-ref Com On Finance
H 0144
Harold Corbin
Prohibits using a phone or handheld device while driving.
3/19/2019 – House – Re-ref to the Com on Judiciary, if favorable, Insurance, if favorable, Finance, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House
H 0159
Robert Davis
Provides funding for Search and Rescue Teams
3/13/2019 – House – Re-ref Com On Appropriations, Justice and Public Safety
H 0213
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
Mitchell Setzer
Under Part X, clarifies the NC Fire and Rescue Commission Rule Making Authority.
2/28/2019 – House – Ref to the Com on Insurance, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House
H 0278
Jason Saine
Separation Allowance Bill
3/7/2019 – House – Ref to the Com on Finance, if favorable, Pensions and Retirement, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House
H 0283
Brenden Jones
Provides benefits ($100,000) to Public Safety Officer murdered while performing their duties.
3/21/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate
H 0466
Dennis Riddell
Adds 3 new Cancers to Line of Duty Death for firefighters
3/28/2019 – House – Ref to the Com on Insurance, if favorable, Appropriations, General Government, if favorable, Appropriations, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House
H 0520
David Lewis
This is a Presumptive Cancer Nill
3/28/2019 – House – Filed
S 0020
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
Danny Britt
Move Over Law/Increase Penalties
2/26/2019 – 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
S 0179
William Jackson
Separation Allowance
3/5/2019 – Senate – Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate
S 0334
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
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
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
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
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.
3/28/2019 – Senate – Filed
____________________________________________________________________
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
UPDATE ON FEDERAL LEGISLATIVE INITIATIVES
I routinely get asked about what is going on at the Federal Level Legislatively. Several from North Carolina and other States will be visiting Washington in late April for the Congressional Fire Services Institutes Dinner, and will use this as an opportunity to stop by Congressional Offices. Although Congress will be out that week, speaking with their staff is often just as successful.
I’ve included below a summary of Federal Issues currently active. If you have an opportunity to interact with your Congressman, this should help you recognize what the issues are.
Local Government and Non-Profit Fire Department Retirement Issue
In 1999 the North Carolina General Assembly passed legislation which allowed career firefighters of non-profit 501 ©3 departments to join the Local Government Retirement System. This law stood until 2002 when an IRS Opinion Letter and a subsequent Attorney General Opinion advised the State they may lose the “public agency” aspect of LGERS if they allowed non-profits as members. This has created an imbalance within the ranks of career firefighters and has frustrated the leadership of non-profit fire departments struggling to keep qualified individuals when municipal fire departments can draw them away due to retirement eligibility.
Resolution to the Retirement Issue
Federal Legislative Action must be taken to resolve the exclusion of these departments under section 414 of the Internal Revenue Code. Congressman Patrick McHenry’s office is currently working on Federal Legislation that would allow these non-profits who contract with local government to provide fire protection to participate in the Local Government Retirement System.
We have been working with Congress to try and get Local Government Retirement benefits extended to all career firefighters in NC, particularly those non-municipal firefighters on non-profit fire departments who contract with local government. This is a growing need as departments add career firefighters. Please call your Congressman as soon as possible and ask them to let the ranking member of the Committee of Jurisdiction, Congressman Brady, know of their desire for him to work with Congressman Patrick McHenry’s office to fix this issue. We have a fix, we just need to get some advocacy to get it before committee.
Congressional Fire Services Caucus
- What is the Congressional Fire Services Caucus?
The Fire Caucus was established in 1987 to educate members of Congress about the fire and emergency services. It is a bipartisan group that works together to improve the readiness of local first responders. The co-chairs of the Caucus in the Senate and House, respectively, are Senators Susan Collins (ME), Thomas Carper (DE), Senator Lisa Murkowski (Ak), Jon Tester (MT), and Representatives Steny Hoyer (MD), Peter King (NY), Bill Pascrell, Jr. (NJ), and Mike Bost (Ill).
- How does the Fire Caucus work?
The Fire Caucus is one of the largest in Congress. It is not about ideology, but rather respect and support for our nation’s first responders. Acting in a bipartisan manner, the Caucus is dedicated to addressing the needs and challenges of our nation’s fire and emergency services. The Caucus serves as a forum for education and discussion on a broad range of issues that impact the readiness and response capabilities of our nation’s first responders to all forms of hazards.
- Why is joining the Fire Caucus important?
Joining the Caucus helps to build relationships with local fire service leaders, who are often pillars of the community. Becoming a member of the Caucus does not obligate members of Congress to support any particular bill or agenda. Rather, it is a general expression of support for the fire and emergency services community. Once a member of Congress joins the Caucus their office will be contacted by the Congressional Fire Services Institute (CFSI) with information about how to increase involvement in fire service activities.
- How does a member of Congress join the Fire Caucus?
The easiest way to join the Fire Caucus is to call CFSI at (202) 371-1277, or through any of the offices of the current Caucus co-chairs.
Ask: Ask your Representative or Senator to join the Congressional Fire Services Caucus if they are not already a member.
Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) AND SAFER Program AND Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) Grant Program
AFG provides funding to local fire departments to purchase equipment, apparatus and training. Ten percent of AFG funds are allocated for the Fire Prevention and Safety (FP&S) grant program. SAFER funding helps fire departments hire and retain career staff as well as recruit and retain volunteers. The most significant source of federal funding for volunteer fire departments is the AFG program, administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). AFG is a competitive grant program that provides funding to fire departments and EMS agencies to purchase desperately needed equipment, apparatus and training. Over the years AFG, funding has enabled thousands of volunteer fire departments to reach a baseline level of readiness. The SAFER grant program, administe