PIERRE — Governor Kristi Noem signed HB1127 during the 2023 Legislative Session, approving a new grant program to support local volunteer fire departments purchase $5.0 million of personal protective Equipment (PPE). 

The Department of Public Safety (DPS) in partnership with the South Dakota Firefighters Association created the grant program to support local volunteer fire departments (VFDs). DPS recently delivered a progress report to the Legislature’s interim committee on appropriations announcing 116 VFDs thus far have received $2.27 million in grant funding as additional VFDs continue to submit their requests.

Over 250 volunteer fire departments were approved for funding from the new grant program. Awards ranged from $720 to $40,500 depending on the applications and need.

PPE includes items such as bunker gear, boots, gloves, helmets, and self-contained breathing apparatus. The grant program was administered by the South Dakota Firefighters Association and the State Fire Marshal’s Office.

Heartland volunteer fire departments that received grant funding include: Alpena, $12,735; Artesian, $22,500; Cavour, $18,000; Clark, $18,000; De Smet, $3,750; Doland, $40,500; Frankfort, $9,361; Highmore, $19,480.50; Hitchcock, $13,050; Huron Rural, $33,300; Iroquois, $22,500; Letcher, $33,300; Miller, $33,300; Redfield, $1,687.50; Ree Heights, $33,300; Tulare, $33,300; Wessington, $15,810; Wessington Springs, $22,500; Willow Lake, $22,500; Wolsey, $22,500.

“Volunteer fire departments are essential in protecting communities and maintaining public safety through their prompt and committed response to emergencies,” stated State Fire Marshal, Paul Merriman. “They form a fundamental part of the state’s firefighting and disaster management system.”