Counties across the state will divide nearly $60 million in funding for volunteer firefighters.
According to Pennsylvania Auditor General Eugene DePasquale, this is an increase over the amount distributed last year:
“This funding helps our dedicated emergency responders to save lives and protect communities and properties,” DePasquale said. ‘Relief associations count on this money to purchase life saving equipment, fund critical training, provide insurance for thousands of volunteer firefighters.”
Butler County’s share comes to nearly $1.12 million, which will go to the Volunteer Firefighters’ Relief Associations of municipalities within the county. Cranberry Township will receive nearly $233,000, Adams Township nearly $112,000, and Butler Township just over $104,000.
Relief association contributions help to pay for needed equipment, training and insurance. According to DePasquale, state lawmakers need to allow more flexibility with how that money is spent.
“90 percent of the state’s fire protection comes from volunteers,” DePasquale said. “They deserve our thanks and continued support. The number one job of local government in Pennsylvania is public safety.”
This funding comes from a two percent tax on out-of-state casualty and fire insurance premiums.
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