Full Breakdown
New York Governor Quadruples Tax Credit for Volunteer Firefighters and EMTs
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event
Governor Kathy Hochul signed legislation that raises the personal-income-tax credit for eligible volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers from $200 to $800 per individual and from $400 to $1,600 for married joint filers. The bill also provides a $1 million state grant to the Village of Hempstead Volunteer Fire Department for new radio equipment. The measure passed the State Senate and Assembly unanimously before being signed into law.
Background & Context
New York’s volunteer fire and EMS workforce has shrunk from roughly 120,000 in the early 2000s to about 80,000 today, a decline of one-third, according to fire officials. While the drop has stabilized in recent years, recruitment and retention remain major challenges, especially for younger volunteers. The tax-credit increase follows other recent efforts, such as legislation phasing out PFAS chemicals in firefighter gear and extending cost-recovery authority for fire-department-run ambulances through 2031.
Official Statements & Responses
Governor Hochul emphasized the personal sacrifices of volunteers, noting missed family events and long hours, and framed the credit boost as a modest expression of gratitude. Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara, a co-sponsor, highlighted that the credit had not changed for nearly two decades and stressed the importance of supporting current responders while encouraging new volunteers. State Senator Monica Martinez described the law as “one step” in a broader plan to improve conditions for volunteer first responders. Billy Theis, chairman of the Nassau and Suffolk Fire Districts Legislative Committee, warned that without sufficient personnel and tools, emergency response could be compromised.
Data & Statistics
- Volunteer firefighter/EMS workforce: ~120,000 (early 2000s) -> ~80,000 (present).
- Tax credit per individual: $200 -> $800 (quadruple).
- Tax credit for married joint filers: $400 -> $1,600.
- State grant for radio equipment: $1 million.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The issue is trying to get the next generation because families are busy and more people are working and the struggles are great,” — Gov. Kathy Hochul
- “I know there's more work to be done,” — State Sen. Monica Martinez
- “When we get the call, somebody's in trouble,” — Billy Theis, chairman of the Nassau and Suffolk Fire Districts Legislative Committee
- “When I talk with our local volunteer departments, recruitment and retention continue to be among the biggest challenges they face,” — Asm. Angelo Santabarbara