Governor Matt Meyer Signs Legislation Supporting Fire Companies

High school students can now earn up to one elective credit by volunteering with their local fire department.

WILMINGTON - Today, Governor Matt Meyer signed two bills supporting fire companies by strengthening the Delaware Volunteerism Act and covering funeral expenses for members of volunteer fire companies.

"Volunteer firefighters save lives every day," said Governor Matt Meyer. "As state leaders, it is critical that we create meaningful incentives to bring new volunteers into these essential roles and honor those who serve. These bills are an investment in public safety, in teaching the next generation, and in the dedicated Delawareans who answer the call when we need them most."

House Bill 171, sponsored by Rep. Debra Heffernan and Sen. Bryan Townsend, updates the Delaware Volunteerism Act to specify that high school students can complete their community service requirements and earn up to one elective credit by volunteering with their local fire departments. Schools will now be required to notify students of this opportunity when they are selecting classes. The bill also authorizes the Department of Education to establish rules and guidelines to ensure a smooth implementation of the program.

"House Bill 171 gives students the chance to earn school credit while volunteering with their local fire company, but more importantly, it gives them the chance to find a sense of purpose, pride, and community," said Rep. Debra Heffernan. "I'm hopeful that by opening the door to volunteer service for young people, we can carry on Delaware's proud tradition of volunteerism and inspire the next generation of first responders."

A 2021 Delaware General Assembly Volunteer Firefighter Recruitment and Retention Task Force report found that there is a shortage of volunteer firefighters in the state. From 2009 to 2019, the Delaware State Fire School class size dropped from 408 to 189. Societal changes, like the cost of living, have directly contributed to this decline.

The report also found that in the last 30 years, emergency calls have tripled statewide.

Senate Bill 28, sponsored by Sen. Darius Brown and Rep. Debra Heffernan, provides $7,000 in funeral expense coverage for deceased members of volunteer fire companies, ladies' auxiliaries, and volunteer ambulance and rescue companies. This benefit will apply even if the member was also a state employee eligible for other burial benefits. The law will take effect on October 1, 2025, giving the state time to prepare and allocate funding.

"Volunteer firefighters are not just heroes; they are members of our communities, our friends, and our family," said Sen. Darius Brown. "When a tragedy strikes, the last thing their loved ones should have to worry about is financial stress during an already painful time. By receiving the fixed benefit of $7,000, we can show our appreciation and commitment to supporting them and their families-both in life and in death."

Governor Meyer also today signed Senate Bill 86, allowing funding and donations to the Delaware Volunteer Fire Service Revolving Loan Fund to be made by any person, charitable organizations, and counties of the State; as well as House Bill 124, increasing the maximum amount of fees that the State Fire Marshal's Office can charge.

For any questions or to schedule a one-on-one interview with Governor Meyer, please email [email protected].