Assemblyman Karl Brabenec (R,C,I-Deerpark) unveiled legislation he is co-sponsoring to allow volunteer firefighters and emergency services workers to be exempt from paying state income taxes if they meet training, time of service and attendance requirements laid out in the legislation. Brabenec participated in a press conference today in Albany hosted by Assemblyman Chris Tague (R,C,I,Ref-Schoharie) promoting the legislation.

“At this critical time for our volunteer fire departments, it is important we give them the support they need to incentivize recruitment and retention of volunteers,” Brabenec said. “These public servants put their lives on the line for our communities, they keep our neighborhoods safe and for that they deserve something in return.

“Today, our volunteer fire departments and emergency services teams are being saddled with extraordinary debt. The cost of replacing equipment, vehicles and resources during increased calls due to the opioid epidemic is becoming overwhelming. If we don’t act to lend them a hand in this time of need, the day might come when our volunteer departments might have to close their doors,” Brabenec continued.

“Without the sacrifices being made by these volunteers, state taxpayers would be on the hook for millions of dollars to fill the void of volunteer fire departments. This small gesture on the part of our state will go a long way toward providing financial relief for our volunteer firefighter and EMS workers to ensure that they can continue their great service to our state for generations to come,” Brabenec concluded.

This effort continues Brabenec’s trend of sponsoring legislation essential for keeping first responders in NYS. Throughout his time in the Assembly, Brabenec has been a proponent of the Blue Lives Matter bill. This legislation would stiffen the consequences for certain offenses against law enforcement and create a new hate crime category for those who target police.

First Responder requirements to be eligible for an income tax exemption:

-Attend at least 55% of department activities

-Have a minimum one year of service with the department

-Be certified by the Chief Emergency Service Coordinator of their County

-Be in good standing