New York lawmakers move to boost volunteer firefighter, EMS tax credit
State lawmakers say it's the first tax credit increase in two decades.
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There's a new plan to boost recruitment and retention of volunteer firefighters and EMS workers.
State lawmakers say it's the first tax credit increase in two decades.
"Listen, especially with the price of gas today, who couldn't use the extra money right now? Everyone could. Especially us," said Sleepy Hollow Volunteer Fire Department Assistant Chief John Korzelius.
This bill would increase the state volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers' tax credit from $200 to $800 for eligible individuals and from $400 to $1,600 for eligible joint filers.
It also eliminates restrictions that currently prevent volunteers from receiving both state tax credit and any local property tax exemptions.
"I think this will really be a significant benefit to people and likely the reason that people continue to remain at the active level," said Arie Uyterlinde, chief of the Briarcliff Manor Fire Department.
According to the Firemen's Association of the State of New York, volunteer firefighters save taxpayers an estimated $3.8 billion every year in salaries and benefits.
Despite that, departments statewide continue to report shortages.
"Especially in Westchester. It's a little harder because again, the cost of housing," said Korzelius. "So, it's very hard to get people and it's also a lot of training, but once you get into it, you're really going to love it. We call it a dysfunctional family...We've had to engage in a variety of initiatives to attract new volunteers, more so than in years past," said Uyterlinde.
Supporters say more work needs to be done, but this is a great first step.
The bill now goes to the state Senate.
News 12 reached out to Gov. Kathy Hochul's office for comment, but did not hear back.
