McAndrew applauds House bipartisan passage of his legislation to remove unnecessary fee for volunteer fire departments
Bill would eliminate financial burden to help departments provide essential protection to communities
Rep. Joe McAndrew March 18, 2024 | 4:42 PM
HARRISBURG, March 18 – State Rep. Joe McAndrew, D-Allegheny, announced today that his legislation to eliminate a fee for volunteer fire departments has passed the Pennsylvania House of Representatives unanimously, in bipartisan fashion.
"Volunteer fire departments are currently required to pay a filing fee to register in Pennsylvania as a nonprofit organization with the Bureau of Corporations and Charitable Organizations," McAndrew said. "This fee places an undue financial burden on fire departments, which provide essential public services and safeguard our communities."
McAndrew's legislation, H.B. 1885, would exempt fire departments from paying fees related to the filing of articles of incorporation, similar to existing waivers for veteran-owned businesses, and would direct the Department of State to adopt procedures to ensure the validity of the organizations receiving exemptions.
“Ensuring towns and cities are equipped to handle fire emergencies is vital, and this legislation would facilitate easier registration for non-profit status without any cost to fire departments,” McAndrew said. “By removing unnecessary fees, we're not just streamlining bureaucracy; we're ensuring that every town and city is equipped to handle emergencies effectively, keeping Pennsylvanians safe.”
House Bill 1885 now moves to the state Senate for consideration.
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