A large amount of money has been released from the state to help local governments meet pension obligations and support volunteer firefighters.
Across the state, a total of over $328 million in aid will be given out, according to Auditor General Eugene DePasquale.
“This is to help shore up pension plans for professional firefighters and municipal employees all across Pennsyvlania,” DePasquale said.
A total of nearly $4 million has been set aside for municipalities within Butler County. Cranberry Township will receive over $1.1 million; the City of Butler will get just over $490,000; and Butler Township will receive over $436,000.
Part of that money will be distributed by the municipalities to local volunteer firefighter relief associations, while the rest will be used to meet municipal employee pension plan obligations. DePasquale spoke about the importance of the funding to a gathering of firefighters.
“These pension plans are critical for you, your loved ones, and your future generations,” DePasquale told firefighters.
This money comes from a two percent tax on out-of-state casualty and fire insurance premiums.