Title:
Consider and take action on a resolution supporting sponsorship of an amendment to Section 419.0322(c) of the Texas Administrative Code in the 89th Texas Legislative Session, to align volunteer firefighter compensation limits with federal standards (Council Member Chadwell, Mayor Long and Council Member Saunders)
Background:
The League City Fire Department (LCFD) contracts with the League City Volunteer Fire Department, Inc. (LCVFD) to provide fire protection services for League City. The LCVFD consists of dedicated local residents who volunteer their time to serve the community. While these individuals are considered volunteers, they receive nominal compensation in recognition of their service, including:
• Stipends for shifts worked
• Retirement benefits
• Pay-for-points programs
Current regulations create inconsistency between state and federal guidelines regarding the compensation limits for volunteer firefighters:
• Texas Administrative Code: Caps total annual compensation for volunteer firefighters at the equivalent of minimum wage for 2,080 hours ($15,080).
• U.S. Department of Labor (DOL): Allows volunteers to receive up to 20% of what a full-time firefighter earns in the same area, which equates to approximately $22,000 in League City.
The existing standard limits the allowed stipend amount, limiting the ability of both the City and LCVFD to incentivize and retain volunteers.
During the course of a year, several LCVDF members will reach the existing stipend cap ($15,080). To resolve this difference and align Texas law with federal standards, an amendment to Texas Administrative Code Section 419.0322(c) would revise the current restriction, which states that a fire department or volunteer fire department may not, in a calendar year, compensate, reimburse, or provide benefits exceeding the equivalent of minimum wage for 2,080 hours annually to any individual designated as a volunteer or auxiliary firefighter.
The proposed amendment would update the provision as follows:
"A fire department or volunteer fire department may not, in a calendar year, compensate, reimburse, or provide benefits exceeding 20% of the total compensation paid to full-time fire protection personnel in the adjacent area to any individual designated as a volunteer or auxiliary firefighter."
This amendment, supported by both the LCFD and LCVFD, will remove regulatory conflicts, increase allowable compensation, and support the retention of dedicated firefighters who protect League City and its residents.
Attachments:
1. Proposed Resolution
2. Texas Government Code 419.0322
3. LCVFD Legislation Sponsor Request
FUNDING:
{ X } Not Applicable
STRATEGIC PLANNING:
{ X } Addresses Strategic Planning Critical Success Factor # 3 Safe and Desirable Community