Proposed Legislation Inspired by Local Fire Companies

The House Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee approved a bill sponsored by Rep. Kate Harper that allows two representatives from fire companies that share a relief association to send, and reimburse, to attend conventions and meetings on behalf of the organizations.

As it currently stands, only one member of each relief association may attend a convention or meeting and have his or her expenses reimbursed.

The issue was brought to the attention of Harper by the Plymouth Fire Co. and the Harmonville Fire Co., which share a relief association, which was recently audited by the state auditor general’s office and was told that the companies could only send one representative to meetings.

“Attending statewide conferences is an important educational opportunity for our firefighters,” Harper said. “Delegates who attend these meetings bring back a wealth of information to share with their fellow firefighters, which benefits not only the company itself but also the communities it serves. The relief association should be able to cover the costs for a delegate from each individual company to attend.”

Volunteer firefighter relief associations are nonprofit groups established to afford financial protection to volunteer firefighters who suffer misfortune as a result of their efforts. The groups are funded by a two percent state tax on fire insurance, and provide insurance to protect volunteer firefighters, purchase fire equipment and cover volunteer training expenses.