By Tracey Porpora
Staten Island Advance, N.Y.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — New York volunteer firefighters and ambulance corps members could be eligible for a property tax credit under new legislation signed this month by Gov. Kathy Hochul.
“Volunteer first responders put their lives on the line to support their fellow New Yorkers, and we are forever indebted to them for their heroism,” said Hochul. “I’m proud to sign this new law that will allow communities to show their gratitude to these heroes.”
Sponsored by Democratic Assemblyman Ken Zebrowski and state Sen. Elijah Reichlin-Melnick of Rockland County, the bill would exempt up to 10% of assessed value for a primary home for volunteer first responders in localities that adopt the new law.
“This is a big win that will be celebrated by volunteer first responders especially when they are able to enjoy the savings on their property tax bill,” Reichlin-Melnick said in a statement. “Volunteer first responders have served Rockland for more than a century and a half, and we must do everything we can to support those who serve today and provide tools to ensure the sustainability of volunteer companies for the future.”
The bill gives permission to any state county to adopt this local law to provide an exemption on “real property” owned by an enrolled member of an incorporated volunteer fire company, department,or voluntary ambulance service.
“The volunteer first responders who serve our community work hard every day to keep our communities safe, and this law will demonstrate our appreciation for their work,” Zebrowski said. “It is also imperative that we work to ensure that our volunteer fire departments and ambulance corps are able to effectively retain and recruit members. This law will go a long way towards ensuring that.”
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