A top state official is pushing for changes to a law that restricts how volunteer firefighting companies are able to use state funding.
Pennsylvania Auditor General Eugene DePasquale believes the law is outdated and needs to be changed.
“The state law that created relief associations dates back to 1968 and it has been updated only twice since then,” DePasquale said. “Simply stated the law has not changed with the times, and in my opinion puts too many restrictions on how relief associations can spend the state aid they receive.
Cranberry Township is one of nearly 60 Volunteer Firefighter Relief Associations across the state with a fund balance greater than $1 million. The most recent audit conducted by the Office of the Auditor General has The Cranberry Township Volunteer Fire Company with nearly $5 million in the bank.
“I’m urging the general assembly to update the law,” DePasquale said. “And perhaps, more importantly, give relief associations greater flexibilty to meet local needs, while making sure each dollar can be used to help firefighters save lives and protect their communities.”
DePasquale urged continued support for all volunteer firefighter groups as fundraising is still needed to allow for the purchase of equipment that state aid does not cover.