NASHVILLE, Tenn. – State Rep. Lowell Russell, R-Vonroe, is encouraging first responders in Loudon and Monroe counties to utilize several funding opportunities administered by the Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance (TDCI).
Funding is available to law enforcement, fire service and emergency communications personnel for training, equipment, and educational opportunities.
“First responders are vital to the success and safety of every community,” Russell said. “As a former state trooper, I know how indispensable quality training and resources can be on the job. I encourage all interested police, firefighters and emergency communications personnel to take advantage of these important funding opportunities.”
Grant opportunities from TDCI include:
- Law Enforcement Recruiting and Retention Grant: Seeks to attract and retain quality officers from in and out of state through funding of up to $8,000 for new officers and up to $10,000 for experienced officers
- Tennessee Law Enforcement Training Academy (TLETA) Cost-Sharing Grant: Assists local law enforcement agencies with the cost of sending personnel to the TLETA
- Supplement Bonus Grant: A one-time $800 retention payment offered by the Tennessee Peace Officer Standards and Training Commission to eligible officers who receive a salary supplement payment
- Volunteer Firefighter Equipment and Training (VFEAT) Grant: Funding to help purchase eligible firefighting equipment
- Get Alarmed, TN: Distributes battery smoke alarms for fire departments to install in at-risk homes
- Volunteer Firefighter Training: Free training provided by the Tennessee Fire Service and Codes Academy to volunteer firefighters
- V-Academy: Free online training for 911 telecommunicators provided by the Tennessee Emergency Communications Board (TECB)
- Cybersecurity Reimbursement Grant: Reimburses 75% of an emergency communications district’s expenses for cybersecurity services and items
The application deadline for the VFEAT grant, which was created in 2019 through legislation approved by the General Assembly, is Wednesday, Nov. 27, 2024, at 2 p.m. CST.
Additional information about these funding opportunities and how to apply can be found here.
State Rep. Lowell Russell represents House District 21, which includes part of Loudon and Monroe counties.
