WORCESTER, Mass. - There is a push among some Massachusetts state lawmakers to create a public safety building authority, similar to the school building authority that already exists.

The school building authority reimburses cities and towns for a portion of the costs for building or renovating schools. Several lawmakers and local first responders would like to see the same system applied to public safety facilities.

State Sen. Michael Moore (D-Worcester) said he supports the idea, but is not sure where the funding would come from. However, the public safety projects most likely won't cost as much as schools.

"I'm glad to see it coming forward, I think this is something we would be looking at," Moore said. "There are so many cities and towns that are trying to fund a police station or fire station, a public safety complex. If you look at the ways cities and towns have to fund these projects, it's through property taxes, and we all know the burden everyone is facing now with escalating prices. It's a good way to help the cities and towns."

The Auburn Fire Department said this is critical legislation that needs to be passed. Auburn fire and the Auburn Police Department have been talking about the need for a new public safety building in town, saying they've grown too big for their current facilities.