It is becoming increasingly advantageous for volunteer fire companies in Pennsylvania to register as a non-profit with the state. The problem: it costs them to do so. Currently, fire companies wishing to register as a non-profit organization in Pennsylvania must pay a $125 filing fee to the Bureau of Corporations and Charitable Organizations. This fee imposes a financial burden on volunteer fire companies that provide an essential public service.
 
That is why I am introducing a bill to exempt volunteer fire companies from paying fees related to the filing of articles of incorporation, which is similar to existing law that waives this fee for veteran-owned businesses. By passing this bill, we would remove financial barriers from our volunteer fire companies and help increase access to fast and equipped emergency services.
 
All citizens should feel that their town or city is equipped to deal with emergencies resulting from fires. This legislation would make it easier for volunteer fire companies across the state to register for non-profit status, without any cost to them for their work. Please consider co-sponsoring this legislation to remove this unnecessary fee for fire companies and help keep Pennsylvanians safe.
 

Statutes/Laws affected:
Printer's No. 1202: 15-153(a)(1)