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Bill

A 6414

Enacts the "omnibus emergency services volunteer incentive act" to provide certain benefits to volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Joe Angelino and 21 co-sponsors

New York proposes emergency services volunteer incentive program offering benefits to firefighters and ambulance workers to boost recruitment and retention statewide.

REFERRED TO WAYS AND MEANS
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Bill Summary · A 6414

Legislative bill overview

Bill A 6414 creates the "Omnibus Emergency Services Volunteer Incentive Act" in New York, establishing a framework of benefits and incentives for volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers. The bill aims to address recruitment and retention challenges in emergency services by offering various forms of support to volunteers.

Why is this important

Volunteer emergency services are critical infrastructure in many New York communities, particularly in rural and suburban areas where career staffing is not economically feasible. The bill recognizes growing challenges in maintaining adequate volunteer corps as demographic shifts and competing demands make recruitment harder, potentially affecting emergency response times and public safety.

Potential points of contention

  • Fiscal impact and funding source: The bill's cost to the state and how it will be funded remains unclear; Ways and Means committee will evaluate whether the state can afford these benefits without raising taxes or cutting other programs
  • Scope of benefits: The specific incentives offered (tax credits, pension benefits, property tax exemptions, etc.) are not detailed in the summary, which could affect both rural and urban communities differently
  • Equity concerns: Questions about whether volunteer-dependent areas receive adequate emergency services compared to areas with career firefighters, and whether state incentives address the root cause of recruitment challenges

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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