Public statement from the Commissioner – forthcoming to the general public:
“Dear Colleagues,
I am pleased to announce that the Office of the State Fire Commissioner and the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry have signed a Letter of Understanding that clarifies our agencies’ interpretation of Act 155 as it relates to the training of 17‑year‑old junior firefighters.
This agreement, signed by L&I Secretary Nancy A. Walker and myself, ensures that our departments are united in supporting safe, appropriate, and lawful training opportunities for young Pennsylvanians who are preparing to serve their communities as firefighters.
By memorializing a mutual interpretation of the law, this Letter of Understanding strengthens our partnership, improves statewide consistency, and reinforces our commitment to protecting minor workers, public safety, and youth workforce development.
Thank you to all who contributed to this effort. Your dedication helped us reach a clear, collaborative resolution that will benefit fire departments and junior firefighters across the Commonwealth.”