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JULIAN, WV — Surrounded by several members of the West Virginia State Firemen’s Association, Gov. Jim Justice ceremonially signed House Bill 5128 providing $12 million to volunteer fire departments, emergency services, and other first responders around the state.

“I say it all the time that our first responders are so brave because they run to the fire, and you all are the courageous men and women who literally do just that,” Gov. Justice said to members of the WVSFA. “Our volunteer firefighters are the lifeblood of our communities, the people we turn to when emergencies strike. Many times, you are away from your families just to help others in a time of need. I cannot think of anything more wholesome. I cannot thank you enough for your work. This money is a drop in the bucket, but you’re absolutely worth every penny. Thank you all for everything you do for West Virginia.”

House Bill 5128 divides the funding into three parts, boosting the financial support for statewide fire departments and emergency services.

Funds will be distributed as follows:

Fire Protection Fund — $6,000,000.00
This amount will be evenly distributed to volunteer fire departments across the state to maintain and enhance day-to-day operations.

All County Fire Protection Fund — $3,000,000.00
This amount will be distributed on a pro-rata basis according to population to fire departments across each county.

County Fire Protection Fund — $3,000,000.00
This amount will be distributed to counties with an excess levy or dedicated fee for first responder services in place. County Commissions will then allocate the funds to fire or emergency management services.