Stanfield bill to increase teenage firefighter training passes committee

TRENTON – Junior firefighters are one step closer to getting the training they need to protect their communities after legislation introduced by 8th District Assemblywoman Jean Stanfield passed the Assembly Homeland Security and State Preparedness Committee, this week.

“I’m very excited to see this training bill pass through committee. It’s something the firefighter community has pushed for as they’re always trying to increase participation and attract more local heroes in the community,” Stanfield said.

The bill (A1106) would allow junior firefighters, ages 14 to 18, to get hands-on experience at training events and emergency scenes under certain circumstances. Those circumstances would be established by the Director of the Division of Fire Safety.

“Allowing some of the older junior firefighters to get regulated, in-the-field experience will not only better prepare fire departments for the future, but it’s also something I believe young adults who want to become firefighters will be excited for,” said Stanfield. “As a local representative, I’m for any solutions from our firefighter experts that will help them grow their ranks.”