Hudson Introduces Legislation to Support Volunteer Firefighters, EMS Workers

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Richard Hudson (NC-08) joined Rep. Patrick McHenry (NC-10), along with Reps. Budd (NC-13), Murphy (NC-03), Bishop (NC-09), Cawthorn (NC-11), Foxx (NC-05) and Rouzer (NC-07), to introduce legislation this week that would allow volunteer firefighters and emergency medical service (EMS) workers to join a state or local retirement system.

"Firefighters and EMS workers keep us safe and deserve our support," said Congressman Hudson. "I am proud to join Rep. McHenry to introduce this legislation that would allow these nonprofit first responders to access the North Carolina state pension fund. I look forward to working with my colleagues to advance this commonsense bill in Congress."

"Every day, the brave men and women serving in our volunteer fire and EMS departments work tirelessly to keep our communities safe," said Congressman McHenry. "This legislation will ensure these essential personnel are finally able to receive the same benefits as their state-employed counterparts. I'm proud to author this bill that supports our full-time volunteer firefighters and EMS as they protect and serve our communities."

Background from lead bill sponsor Rep. Patrick McHenry:

For years, the IRS has prevented full-time volunteer firefighters and EMS personnel from joining the North Carolina state retirement system despite providing the same emergency and community services as those employed by the state. This legislation creates a special rule to clarify that 501c (nonprofit) public safety agency firefighters and EMS workers can join the governmental plan of the locality or state they are contracted to work in.

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