HARRISBURG — Auditor General Timothy L. DeFoor announced the release of audit reports for volunteer firefighters’ relief associations (VFRAs) in 18 counties.
“Thousands of volunteer firefighters benefit from the state aid delivered through relief associations,” DeFoor said. “Our audits make sure they have the life-saving equipment, critical training and insurance they need to help keep Pennsylvanians safe.”
In Potter County the Harrison Township Firefighters’ Relief Association audit found that not all checks issued by the VFRA carried the signatures of two association officers, as required by the organization’s bylaws and state law. Also, the Kettle Creek Hose Company #1 Volunteer Firemen’s Relief Association audit revealed that two VFRA bank accounts were inappropriately registered under the affiliated fire department’s tax identification number.
The Department of the Auditor General distributes state aid for VFRAs and audits how they use the funds, which are generated by a 2% tax on fire insurance policies sold in Pa. by out-of-state companies.
This year, $54 million went to 2,517 municipalities for distribution to VFRAs to provide training, purchase equipment and insurance, and pay for death benefits for volunteer firefighters.
VFRAs that do not comply with applicable state laws, contracts, bylaws and administrative procedures risk having future state aid withheld. Relief associations are separate legal entities from the fire departments they support.
Audit reports are available online at www.PaAuditor.gov/audit-reports.
