A bill that would qualify Pennsylvania volunteer firefighters and ambulance and rescue personnel for workers’ compensation for injuries suffered in the line of duty was approved by the state Senate Wednesday and was sent to the governor’s office.

Previously approved in the House of Representatives, Senate Bill 94 would apply to 1,550 volunteer fire companies and 92 ambulance organizations that are insured through the State Workers Insurance Fund.

“The volunteers who dedicate so much of their time and effort to protecting our lives and property should not have to worry about the financial consequences if they are injured in the course of their duties,” said Sen. Scott Martin, R-13th, one of the bill’s sponsors. “They deserve to know that we will stand up for them when they need us most.”