MS HB1392

Creates the FIRE Grant Fund in the State Treasury, administered by the Department of Finance and Administration, to assist counties and municipalities with fire safety improvements, maintaining community fire ratings, and recruiting firefighters

Consolidates four existing fire-related funds (Rural Fire Truck Fund, Rural Fire Truck Matching Assistance Fund, Supplementary Rural Fire Truck Fund, and Annual Fire Fund) into the new FIRE Grant Fund, with all unobligated balances to be transferred by July 10, 2026

Establishes a 10-member FIRE Grant Advisory Committee with appointments by the Lieutenant Governor and Speaker of the House to provide nonbinding advice on grant administration

Provides grants for fire trucks (up to 70% of purchase price, or 90% for first-time recipients), equipment (up to 70%), and countywide fire programs (up to $100,000 for first or second year expenses), using a points-based system that rewards applicants with current Fire Rating Plans

Prohibits mandatory retirement of fire trucks based solely on calendar age if the vehicle has an up-to-date maintenance log and has passed all required safety inspections and performance testing