Show-Me State Times

The Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry is lending its support to various legislative proposals aimed at improving the recruitment and retention of first responders. One key piece of legislation is HB 1527, proposed by Representative Brad Christ (R-St. Louis). This bill seeks to make public safety personnel and their dependents eligible for the Fast Track Workforce Incentive Grant, with no income restrictions.

The Fast Track program, backed by the Missouri Chamber, was introduced in 2019 to fulfill workforce needs by aiding Missouri adults in obtaining certificates, degrees, or apprenticeships, particularly in high-demand fields.

Addressing the House Emerging Issues Committee, Representative Christ mentioned, "This is a really good way to support first responders. It’s a profession where we’re seeing massive shortages of personnel."

Cade Tremain, Missouri Chamber's Manager of Governmental Affairs, spoke in favor of the bill, describing it as a crucial measure to stabilize and strengthen Missouri's first responder workforce. Tremain remarked, "The Missouri Chamber published a report, Safer Missouri, Stronger Missouri, and it covers the workforce struggles faced by first responders in our state. Offering this type of tuition program will have a ripple effect on our workforce. First responders will see that the state is investing in them and their families."

Moreover, the Missouri Chamber expressed support for HB 1514, introduced by Representative Dave Hinman (R-O’Fallon), and HB 1525, also sponsored by Representative Christ. These proposals under the First Responder Recruitment and Retention Act would ensure free college tuition for first responders and their children. The act proposes a tuition waiver extending up to five years, contingent upon the first responder pursuing an associate or bachelor’s degree related to their career.

A related bill, SB 71, is under the sponsorship of Senator David Gregory (R-St. Louis County). For further details, interested parties may contact Cade Tremain via email at ctremain@mochamber.com or by phone at (573) 634-3511.