Training reciprocity requested for military firefighter experience

Armed forces experience could help potential Minnesota firefighters satisfy training requirements.  

Sponsored by Jeff Howe (R-Rockville), HF1570, would, in part, establish licensure reciprocity for prospective firefighters based on relevant military experience.

Rep. Jeff Howe

Approved as amended Wednesday by the House Public Safety and Crime Prevention Policy and Finance Committee, the bill awaits House Floor action. A companion, SF1597, sponsored by Sen. Ann Rest (DFL-New Hope), awaits action by the full Senate.

“To be licensed, they’ll still have to pass Firefighter I and II, in terms of the exam,” said Brian Rice, representing the Minnesota Professional Fire Fighters.

Under the bill, a person would be eligible to take the exam if they have relevant military experience and were honorably discharged or are currently in active service. Military experience is defined in the bill as:

• four years of cumulative service experience in a military firefighting occupational specialty;
• two years of cumulative service experience, and completion of at least a two-year degree from a regionally accredited postsecondary education institution; or
• four years of cumulative experience as a full-time firefighter in another state combined with the cumulative service experience in a military firefighting occupational specialty.

A 2014 law created military reciprocity for the Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) board exam.