Volunteer firefighters, EMTs urge governor to sign bill boosting tax credit
Supporters say the increase would help first responders keep up with the rising cost of living while continuing to serve their communities.
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Volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers are urging Gov. Kathy Hochul to sign legislation that would significantly increase a tax credit available to emergency responders.
Fire crews and lawmakers gathered at the Ossining Fire Department to support a bill that has already passed the state Legislature. The measure would raise the volunteer firefighter and ambulance worker tax credit from $200 to $800.
Supporters say the increase would help first responders keep up with the rising cost of living while continuing to serve their communities.
Volunteer firefighters handle about 90% of fire and emergency response calls across New York, according to the Firefighters Association of the State of New York.
"We want to give back, but sometimes we feel priced out of doing so," said Ossining volunteer firefighter Mackenzie Farrell. "It's important to know that volunteers cover 90% of the fire and emergency response calls around the state. The state relies on our ability to remain in our communities to give back."
The Firefighters Association of the State of New York said the tax credit has remained unchanged since it was created nearly 20 years ago.
