Senator Bill Larkin (R-C, Cornwall-on-Hudson) today announced the state budget agreement between the Senate and Assembly includes a tax break for volunteer firefighters.

"There are approximately 130,000 volunteer firefighters and emergency personnel in New York," said Senator Larkin. "In order to encourage more residents to join their local volunteer fire departments, the legislative budget will give these individuals a $200 personal income tax credit if they are not already receiving the local property tax exemption from their county."

According to the provision, volunteer firefighters and emergency personnel across New York State would save $26 million.

The agreed upon budget bills will be sent to the Governor for his approval.