The House Committee on Appropriations on April 28 approved House Bill 245, which sets new training and certification requirements for firefighters to receive state supplemental pay.

The measure, introduced by Representative Zorang, requires firemen to complete a certified firefighting training program from a Pro Board–accredited agency or an International Fire Service Accreditation Congress–approved entity and meet the National Fire Protection Association’s standard for firefighter certification (NFPA 1001). The bill also requires validation of that certification by the Louisiana Fire and Emergency Training Academy.

Sponsor remarks emphasized the amendment was added to ensure only those with accredited training receive the supplemental pay and to provide a safeguard by requiring state academy validation. A representative of the Firemen’s Association was present in support and numerous supporters submitted cards for the record.

Vice Chairman Hughes moved the bill favorable as amended; the committee approved the motion by voice vote. The committee took no further action beyond approval as amended, and no formal fiscal details were changed during the hearing.

The committee discussion focused on ensuring credentialing and training quality rather than altering the supplemental-pay benefit’s structure. The amendment that added the accreditation and academy validation language was offered, discussed briefly, and adopted before the committee voted on the bill.

The bill now moves forward as approved by the committee; the statute language adopted in committee requires accredited training and validation by the state training academy before supplemental pay eligibility is established.