Act 21 of 2026 increased the caps for equipment and facilities under the Fire and EMS Loan Program. The program provides 2% loans for fire and EMS companies to acquire, rehabilitate, or improve apparatus, facilities, and equipment. The new limits are $750,000 or 50% (whichever is less) for facilities, $750,000 for new aerial apparatus, and $375,000 or 50% (whichever is less) for new heavy-duty rescue and new apparatus. The terms for these loans have been extended to 30 years. 

In addition, the loan limits are now $300,000 or 80% (whichever is less) for used equipment and apparatus; $200,000 or 50% (whichever is less) for new light-duty rescue and new ambulance; $150,000 or 80% (whichever is less) for repair or refurbishment; and $75,000 (limited to once per five years) for new equipment and new watercraft rescue. The terms for these loans have been extended to 20 years. These changes took effect July 12, 2026. 

Click here to learn more about this loan program. Click here to view the Pennsylvania Bulletin notice from the Office of State Fire Commissioner.