A bill aimed at supporting recruitment and retention of the volunteer firefighters and EMS workers who make up the backbone of many local departments was rejected by Democrats in Albany.
The measure, which would have provided a $2,500 state income tax credit to volunteer emergency responders, was co-sponsored by Assemblyman Joseph DeStefano, a member of the Medford Fire Department for more than four decades, who said the legislation recognized both the financial and personal sacrifices made by those who serve.
“Given the enormous amount of time and energy these volunteers give to their communities—not to mention risking their lives every time they go out on a call—the least we can do is give them a credit on their income tax,” DeStefano said.
Across New York, particularly on Long Island and in upstate communities, volunteers respond to the vast majority of emergencies. DeStefano said replacing them with paid personnel would come at a steep cost to taxpayers.
“It’s critical that we continue to encourage people to volunteer,” the assemblyman stressed. “If departments had to staff fully paid crews, the financial burden on local taxpayers would be enormous.”
Firefighters and Emergency Medical Services volunteers must complete extensive training before responding to calls. That includes certification in firefighting techniques, first aid and CPR, and specialized instruction for operating large fire apparatus, ambulances, and heavy rescue equipment. Many also train in marine operations, hazardous materials response, and other advanced disciplines, depending on the needs of their departments.
Beyond training, the commitment often requires volunteers to leave their families at a moment’s notice, respond to calls in the middle of the night, and put themselves in dangerous situations to protect others.
Fire department and ambulance company officials have warned of declining volunteer numbers in recent years, citing time demands, work schedules, and rising training requirements as barriers to entry. Supporters of DeStefano’s bill argue the tax credit would serve as a modest but meaningful incentive to help retain experienced members and attract new recruits.
“This isn’t about compensation,” DeStefano said. “It’s about recognizing the people who keep our communities safe every day.” He pledged to push his fellow legislators to reconsider the measure.