AL HB270

Amends Section 36-32-7 of the Alabama Code to add a new subsection (d) creating an exemption from standard firefighter certification requirements for firefighters employed by qualifying companies.

Allows the Alabama Firefighters' Personnel Standards and Education Commission to certify firefighters employed by companies that maintain their own fire department with at least 15 full-time firefighters.

Qualifying companies must provide annual training of at least 160 hours per year per firefighter, possess at least one Class A pumping engine, at least one certified and state-licensed ambulance, and either a hazardous materials team or emergency response team.

Requires that any training provided by qualifying companies be conducted by an instructor certified by the commission and may be scheduled in intervals over 12 months rather than in continuous sessions.

Becomes effective on the first day of the third month following passage and approval by the Governor.