WILMINGTON, DE — Governor Matt Meyer signed new legislation Tuesday aimed at strengthening Delaware’s volunteer fire companies and providing additional support for firefighters and their families.
House Bill 171 updates the Delaware Volunteerism Act to allow high school students to earn community service credit and up to one elective credit by volunteering with local fire departments. Schools are now required to notify students of this opportunity when selecting classes.
The Department of Education will establish guidelines to ensure smooth implementation. “House Bill 171 gives students the chance to earn school credit while volunteering, but more importantly, it gives them a sense of purpose, pride, and community,” said Rep. Debra Heffernan, who sponsored the bill. Lawmakers hope the program will inspire the next generation of first responders amid a growing shortage of volunteer firefighters. Between 2009 and 2019, the Delaware State Fire School class size dropped from 408 to 189, while emergency calls statewide have tripled over the last 30 years.
Senate Bill 28 provides $7,000 in funeral expense coverage for members of volunteer fire companies, auxiliaries, and volunteer ambulance and rescue companies, even if the member qualifies for other state burial benefits. The benefit will take effect October 1, 2025. “Volunteer firefighters are not just heroes; they are part of our communities and families,” said Sen. Darius Brown, sponsor of the bill. “This benefit ensures their loved ones are supported during difficult times.”
Governor Meyer also signed Senate Bill 86, allowing funding and donations to the Delaware Volunteer Fire Service Revolving Loan Fund from any individual, charitable organization, or county, and House Bill 124, which increases the maximum fees the State Fire Marshal’s Office can charge. “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,” Meyer said.
