Pennsylvania Expands Taxing Power for Fire and EMS Services
STATE COLLEGE, PA — In a critical development for local emergency services, Pennsylvania’s legislature is advancing a bill that would grant over 1,400 municipalities increased taxing power to support struggling fire departments and emergency medical services (EMS).
Last year, state lawmakers allowed select local governments to raise property taxes for these services, but the new bill, recently passed by the Democratic-controlled House, aims to extend similar privileges to many more areas. Currently, municipalities can fund their emergency services through general funds or dedicated property taxes, which ensure that the revenue is used specifically for those services.
Historically, state law imposed strict limits on these property taxes—capping fire taxes at 3 mills and EMS taxes at half a mill. The recent Act 54 partially addressed this by permitting about 150 municipalities to raise these caps, with Northampton Township being one of the first to implement the higher limits successfully. Township Manager Robert Pellegrino noted that this increase has been crucial for maintaining a full-time fire department, alleviating previous funding constraints.
Supporters of the expanded taxing authority, including state Rep. Chris Pielli, argue that raising the caps will enable better local decision-making and enhance public safety funding. As demand for fire and emergency services rises, many municipalities face financial challenges, with a significant number reporting budget deficits.
The bill has garnered support from both fire and EMS agencies, seeking immediate solutions to funding shortages. Although the proposed changes are viewed as a positive step, experts underscore the need for a multifaceted approach to address the broader challenges facing public safety services in Pennsylvania.
As municipalities continue to grapple with financial sustainability, the proposed tax adjustments may offer critical relief, ensuring essential emergency services can operate effectively for Pennsylvania residents.
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