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For Immediate Release
February 2, 2009
Contact: Sally Kohr
(717) 787-4651

Alloway Cosponsors Legislation to Benefit Volunteer Fire, EMS Organizations

HARRISBURG – Senator Richard Alloway II (R-33) has cosponsored two bills that will benefit volunteer fire, EMS and rescue organizations and their members.

The first bill would provide active members of volunteer fire and emergency service organizations a tax credit of up to $500 against an individual's state tax liability. A member's eligibility would be determined by a points system created by the State Fire Commissioner and EMS Director.

Another piece of legislation would give businesses an incentive to hire and retain volunteer firefighters and emergency services personnel by providing a $1000 tax credit against a business' state tax liability for each volunteer first responder they employ.

"Our volunteer first responders deserve recognition for the vital services they provide to our communities," Alloway said. "I am hopeful that we can see both of these bills signed into law this year to honor their service."

Alloway also urged active members of volunteer fire, ambulance and rescue organizations to apply for a one-time credit of up to $100 against their state tax liability for 2008. As part of Act 66 of 2008, members may be eligible for the credit based on response rates, attendance, sleep-in and standby times, memberships and certifications.

More information on eligibility for this tax credit is available at the State Fire Commissioner and EMS Director's website at www.osfc.state.pa.us. Eligible volunteers must complete the PA-40 Schedule OC-V tax form, which is available by accessing the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue's website at www.revenue.state.pa.us or by calling 1-800-362-2050.

"This is a valuable tax credit for many volunteers, and I would urge all volunteer fire chiefs and emergency services directors to ensure all of their members are aware of the benefits of the credit," Alloway said.

The form must be filed when the individual files his or her state income taxes before the state's April 15, 2009 deadline.