$10 million granted towards training stipends for NYS volunteer firefighters
ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) – $10 million in the New York State budget has been included to offset costs of training courses for volunteer firefighters, awarding $500 to $1,250 for completion of training courses.
“These stipends will allow our firefighters to continue serving their communities while also being able to provide for their families,” Governor Hochul said.
Volunteer firefighters have served nearly half of the state’s population, but in recent years more than three-quarters of these departments have seen a decrease in the number of people willing to volunteer and serve, according to the Governor’s Office.
Volunteer firefighter training course stipends will run as follows:
- Basic Exterior Firefighting Operations: $750
- Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus or Interior Firefighting Operations: $1,250
- Fire Officer one: $1,000
Additionally, a local fire training stipend may be authorized for completion of any OFPC course for up to $500.
Stipends are for first-time course completions, and good academic standing is determined by their department as stipend applications are submitted by the fire chief.
To be eligible, fire departments must have submitted fire reports for the previous year, and complete annual fire department demographics form.
The Division’s Office of Fire Prevention and Control will administer this stipend to volunteer firefighters who complete their training courses on or after August 31, 2023.
You can visit the State Office of Fire Prevention and Control homepage for more information on the program.
