Robbins Announces Senate Passage of Firefighter
Funding
HARRISBURG – Yesterday, the Pennsylvania Senate approved
legislation authorizing up to $50 million in loans to volunteer
firefighting companies, ambulance services and rescue squads,
according to State Senator Bob Robbins (R-50). The loans will be
funded by a bond issue that was approved by voter referendum on
November 5, 2002. Seventy-four percent of voters favored borrowing an
additional $50 million for the Volunteer Companies Loan Fund bringing
the total authorization to $100 million for support of volunteer
emergency services companies.
In order to issue additional loans, the Volunteer Loan Assistance
Act must be updated to reflect the voters' approval of additional
funding.
"When an accident occurs or urgent medical treatment is needed,
having the latest emergency equipment available can make the
difference in saving a life," Robbins said. The Volunteer Loan
Assistance Program provides low-interest loans to volunteer fire,
ambulance and rescue companies for the acquisition or renovation of
facilities and equipment, including firefighting apparatus, ambulances
and protective and communications equipment.
Sen. Robbins said that the program has made more than $275 million
in loans available to the Commonwealth's volunteer emergency services
community since its inception in 1976. According to Robbins, House
Bill 900 was concurred in by the House of Representatives today and
now goes to the Governor for his consideration.
CONTACT: Michael Hengst (717) 787-1322
