HARRISBURG – Auditor General Timothy L. DeFoor today announced the release of audit reports for volunteer firefighters’ relief associations (VFRAs) in five counties.
“Our audits help to make sure that VFRAs are properly using state funds to help dedicated first responders save lives and protect our communities,” DeFoor said.
DeFoor applauded four of the VFRAs for having no audit findings.
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 Pennsylvania 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 risk having future state aid withheld if they do not comply with applicable state laws, contracts, bylaws and administrative procedures.
Relief associations are separate legal entities from the fire departments they support.
Audit reports are available online using the links provided below, or at www.PaAuditor.gov/audit-reports.
Beaver County
Independence Township Volunteer Fire Department Relief Association – Two findings: The association was unable to provide the title to a rescue vehicle purchased with VFRA funds. The VFRA improperly donated a 1988 mini-pumper to a fire service located outside of Pennsylvania.
Bedford County
Hyndman Volunteer Fire Department Inc. Firemen’s Relief Association – No findings.
McKean County
Lewis Run Volunteer Fire Department Relief Association – No findings.
Mercer County
Jefferson Township Volunteer Fireman’s Foreign Fire Relief Association – No findings.
Mifflin County
Burnham Firemen’s Relief Association – No findings.
Review other recent audits and learn more about the Department of the Auditor General online at www.PaAuditor.gov.
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