Senator Patrick M. Gallivan, (R-C, Elma) announced that the New York State Senate has approved a bill to increase the personal income tax credit granted to volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers. Under the legislation co-sponsored by Senator Gallivan, the credit will increase from $200 to $800 for individuals and from $400 to $1600 for eligible married joint filers.

“Fire departments across the state are experiencing a severe shortage in volunteers, making it more challenging to respond to fires, motor vehicle accidents, medical emergencies and other calls for help,” Senator Gallivan said. “While there is no easy solution to the volunteer crisis, initiatives like this will help in attracting new members and retaining those who are currently serving their communities.”

About nine million New York residents rely on volunteers to staff their local fire departments and ambulatory services. The Firefighters Association of the State of New York (FASNY) estimates that volunteer first responders save taxpayers an estimated $4 billion annually by providing unpaid emergency services. 

The legislation implements recommendations put forward by the Volunteer Firefighter Recruitment and Retention Task Force, which was convened by the New York State Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Services in 2022 to address the statewide shortage. 

The bill has already passed by the State Assembly and will go to Governor Hochul for her consideration.

“I urge the governor to sign this bill into law,” Senator Gallivan said.

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