New York State Senator Joseph A. Griffo (R-C-Rome) and Assemblyman Brian D. Miller (R-C-New Hartford) announced that legislation they sponsored to formally establish the New Hartford Volunteer Exempt Firefighters’ Benevolent Association has been signed into law by Gov. Kathy Hochul. 

The legislation, S.9197/A.10278, was introduced at the request of the New Hartford Volunteer Exempt Firefighters’ Benevolent Association to provide the organization with a formal legal structure, modernize its operations, and strengthen its ability to support the volunteer firefighters who serve and protect the New Hartford community.

 Under the new law, the association will be incorporated as a not-for-profit organization, allowing it to provide financial relief and assistance to eligible volunteer firefighters and their families, support the health and safety of its members, and promote recruitment and retention within the department. The legislation also establishes a framework for the association to receive and administer designated foreign fire insurance premium tax revenues to support its authorized activities and the welfare of its members. 

“Our volunteer firefighters answer the call whenever their community needs them, and it is important that we stand behind them with that same commitment,” Assemblyman Miller said. When members of the New Hartford Fire Department approached us about establishing this benevolent association, Senator Griffo and I were proud to work with them to move this legislation through both houses of the Legislature. This law will give the association the tools to assist firefighters and their families, strengthen camaraderie, and support the long-term future of volunteer firefighting in New Hartford. As someone who understands the challenges facing our local fire departments, I know how important recruitment and retention are to keeping our communities safe. I am grateful to everyone who helped make this possible and especially to the volunteers who continue to serve our community.” 

"I am pleased that the governor has signed this legislation into law,” Sen. Griffo said. “After New Hartford Fire Department members approached Assemblyman Miller and I regarding this initiative, we worked diligently to move this bill through the legislative process. Now, the department will have another resource to support efforts to modernize the organization and assist with recruitment and retention. I appreciate all those who made this moment possible and am especially thankful for all of our first responders." 

The legislation outlines membership eligibility, establishes organizational and governance requirements, and authorizes the association to use designated funding for purposes including assistance to injured or disabled members, health and safety initiatives, and activities that support the volunteer fire service. 

The law takes effect immediately, with provisions governing the collection of foreign fire insurance premium taxes applying to premiums received on or after Jan. 1, 2027.