Saving Volunteer Firefighting

Policy Committee    October 30, 2024

OLD FORGE, Oct. 30 – Volunteer firefighting has changed dramatically in the last 50 years, and local companies are facing financial and logistical challenges to continue serving their communities. Officials and firefighters detailed their concerns, from decreased membership to an increase in calls, and asked the state to help find a solution to many of these challenges. 

• Host: Rep. Jim Haddock (D-Lackawanna, Luzerne)
• Testifiers:
  • Thomas Cook- Fire Commissioner of Pennsylvania
  • Jim Williams- Volunteer Firefighter, Old Forge Fire Department
  • Bob Aulisio- Volunteer Firefighter, Old Forge Fire Department
  • Mike Lombardo- Paramedic, Vice President, Greater Pittston Regional Ambulance Association
  • Robert Timko, Out of State Coordinator Assistant, Firefighters Association of Pennsylvania
  • Brooks Stahlnecker- Founder, RIT First Responders Wellness Program
  • Eric Frantz- Advisor, Danville High School Fire Club

Agenda + Testimony

• Hearing agenda and testimony: Saving Volunteer Firefighting

Media Release + News Coverage

• Haddock details efforts to save volunteer firefighting, October 30, 2024
• FOX 56 WOLF, Firefighters voice concerns over volunteer shortages and financial struggles, October 30, 2024
• WBRE, PA lawmakers, firefighters hold roundtable in Old Forge, October 30, 2024

Video + Photos

• Click here to view the entire hearing
• Click here to view photos from the hearing