MCVFRA Statement on Introduction of Expedited Bill 6-26

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 3, 2026

MCVFRA Statement on Introduction of Expedited Bill 6-26

The Montgomery County Volunteer Fire Rescue Association thanks the Montgomery County Council and, in particular, Councilmembers Dawn Luedtke, Sidney Katz, and Kristin Mink, the members of the Council’s Public Safety Committee, for introducing Expedited Bill 6-26 to provide clear statutory direction regarding the lawful use of EMS insurance reimbursement revenues in support of volunteer fire and rescue services.

As MCVFRA noted following the Office of Inspector General’s recent reports, the EMST program has long operated within a complex, multi-entity system that benefits from clearer rules and prospective clarification. This legislation responds directly to that need by reinforcing transparency, continuity, and lawful use of funds in support of public safety.

“Volunteer firefighters and EMS providers are a cornerstone of Montgomery County’s integrated fire-rescue system,” said Russell Hartung, President of MCVFRA. “We appreciate the leadership of Councilmembers Luedtke, Katz, and Mink in acting promptly to clarify the law prospectively and ensure that EMS reimbursement funds can continue to be used responsibly to support training, equipment, facilities, and system-level functions that benefit local volunteer departments.”

MCVFRA looks forward to continuing to work collaboratively with the County, Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service, and elected officials to strengthen oversight, ensure compliance, and maintain a stable and effective combined career-volunteer fire-rescue system for County residents.

Contact: President Russell Hartung, president@mcvfra.org
Christopher Jennison, Boardmember and Communications Chair- christopher.jennison@bccrs.org
Montgomery County Volunteer Fire and Rescue Association, www.mcvfra.org