New Jersey Senate Republicans

10/01/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 10/01/2026 11:20

Amato, Singer Bill to Help Protect Volunteer Fire Departments Passes Committee

News Flash

Amato, Singer Bill to Help Protect Volunteer Fire Departments Passes Committee

Carmen Amato Posted on October 01, 2026

The Senate Community and Urban Affairs Committee passed Senator Carmen Amato, Jr. (R-Ocean) and Senator Robert Singer's (R-Monmouth, Ocean) bill to help protect volunteer fire departments from unnecessary financial strain.

Specifically, S-1566 would establish the "Volunteer Fire Company Assistance Program" in the Division of Fire Safety in the Department of Community Affairs to support the ongoing operations and sustainability of volunteer fire companies, as well as establishing a special, non-lapsing fund to be known as the "Volunteer Fire Company Assistance Program Fund."

"Volunteer fire companies play a critical role in keeping our communities safe, especially in the wake of the devastating Pinelands wildfire last year," said Sen. Amato. "So many Ocean County residents depend on these dedicated volunteers. We need to make sure these departments have the necessary financial support to keep their doors open, respond to emergencies, and continue protecting our families."

"Providing volunteer fire companies with the support they need to remain ready to answer the call when emergencies happen is of the utmost importance for the health and safety of New Jersey families," said Sen. Singer. "These volunteers put their lives on the line to protect our communities, and we need to do our part to ensure these departments can remain steadfast on their job without looming financial concerns."

You can read the full bill here.

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