FOR
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
01/27/04
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Senate
approves funding for firefighters, EMS Units
HB 900 would provide $50 million for loans
The Senate
unanimously approved legislation Monday that would authorize $50 million
in loans to volunteer fire companies and emergency medical services corps,
according to Senator John Pippy, R-37th District.
The loans will be
funded by a bond issue approved by voter referendum in 2002. House Bill
900, which the Senate amended and returned to the House Monday for
concurrence updates the Volunteer Loan Assistance Act to provide for the
additional funding and allow the issuance of loans.
"We recognize the
vital service provided by volunteer firefighters and ambulance corps and
the important role they play in many communities across the Commonwealth,"
Senator Pippy said. "Unfortunately, many companies are finding it
difficult to cover the rising costs of equipment and training. A new fire
truck, for example, can cost several hundred thousand dollars. We owe a
debt of gratitude to our volunteer firefighters and emergency medical
services crews. With these loans, we can thank them for the invaluable
service they provide to our communities."
The Volunteer Loan
Assistance Program provides low-interest loans to volunteer fire,
ambulance and rescue companies for the acquisition, rehabilitation or
improvement of facilities and equipment. The program has made more than
$275 million in loans available to the commonwealth's volunteer emergency
services community since its creation in 1976.
Contact – Matt
Campion @ 412.262.2260
