Greetings everyone,

We are working on a letter writing campaign to support SB 577 (Hurtado) (see attachment for proposed bill) which would allow the State Fire Marshal to accept additional funding sources for the California Fire Service Training and Education Program. The bill would make the same change relative to the California Fire and Arson Training Act. Permitting the State Fire Marshall to receive additional funding sources for training programs will help to mitigate rising fees for those seeking fire training certification.

California State Fire Training (SFT) provides curriculum and certification to current fire department firefighters, and individuals seeking a career in the fire service. Over the years the fire service has become more professional and certifications are now required for every position in the fire service. To generate enough revenue, fees needed to be raised by over 200% and in some cases as high as 400%. This has resulted in courses and certification becoming unaffordable to volunteer firefighters and for individuals seeking entry level positions. SB 577 allows the State Fire Marshal to accept additional funding sources for the California Fire Service Training and Education Program.

We would like to see if your institution would be willing to draft a letter () in support of the SB 577. If so, please send Please send a copy to Harrison Pardini at [email protected] and Submit online via Advocate Portal https://calegislation.lc.ca.gov/Advocates/. Thank you for your time, help and consideration.

Matthew Jewett

CFTDA Vice President

[email protected]

SB 577 Letter of Support.docx
SB 577 Letter of Support CFD.pdf
SB 577 State Fire Training Accessibility Act (Hurtado) Fact Sheet.pdf