Deasy applauds bill that calls for surcharge exemption for volunteer fire companies and Veterans’ organizations

HARRISBURG, May 29 – Noting the additional financial burdens and loss of fundraising income opportunities caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and incurred by Pennsylvania volunteer fire companies and veterans’ organizations, state Rep. Dan Deasy, D-Allegheny, said he is applauding the unanimous passage this week of H.B. 1048, legislation that would exempt the $700 liquor licensee surcharge for these fire companies and veterans’ organizations.

“These organizations and volunteer companies are the center of our communities,” Deasy said. “In many cases during the pandemic, these are the very men and woman who have been on the front lines with compassion and comfort for our neighbors. Truth be told, the measures we’ve had to put into place to mitigate COVID-19 have had a negative impact on their bottom lines, and this exemption is one way our struggling volunteer fire companies and veterans’ organizations can reach the goal of financial security a bit easier.”

The bill is now awaiting the governor’s signature.