Pennsylvania House Bill 162 authorizes cities to levy up to half-mill property tax for emergency services

Pennsylvania cities are newly authorized to levy an annual property tax not exceeding one-half mill to fund local ambulance, rescue, and emergency services. City councils may allocate up to half of this revenue for personnel salaries and benefits, and may vote by resolution to waive this internal allocation cap for any calendar year. Any tax rate proposed above the one-half mill threshold must be approved by city voters via a referendum at the next municipal or general election occurring at least 60 days later.

Property owners in Pennsylvania cities face a potential new local tax up to one-half mill dedicated to emergency services, while local rescue squads and ambulance services become eligible for direct municipal funding and staff compensation support.