Law establishes property tax exemption for volunteer first responders
Members of the Erie County Legislature Republican Caucus today unveiled plans to provide property tax exemptions for volunteer first responders. The local law exempts up to 10% of the assessed value of their primary residence for members who have served a minimum of two years. This effort follows an amendment to NYS Real Property Tax Law signed last month that provides for the property tax exemption.
“Our emergency responder volunteers serve our community in so many ways. They make significant sacrifices and providing them some relief on their tax bill is the right thing to do,” said Minority Leader John Mills (11th District).
In order to be eligible for this exemption, the volunteer firefighter or ambulance worker must live in the community that is served by the district, and the exemption is only for a residential property that is the volunteer’s primary district in which they serve.
“I’ve seen firsthand the dedication and sacrifice of these first responders,” said Legislator Frank Todaro (8th Dist.). “I was a volunteer firefighter in Lancaster. These men and women answer the call day and night. We are safer because of them.”
“I know many volunteer fire companies struggle with recruitment and retention. This is one way we can help,” said Leg. Christopher Greene (6th Dist.). We saw in the recent storm the countless ways they contribute to the betterment of our communities.”
The measure provides a lifetime exemption benefit to anyone who achieves 20 years of service and extends the lifetime exemption benefit to spouses of deceased first responders with at least 20 years.
“The volunteer fire companies and first responders perform an incredibly important service. They deserve thanks and recognition for their sacrifice. This is one way to do that,” said Leg. Jim Malczewski (10th Dist.).
Introducing this law is the first step in a process that will include public input. Republican lawmakers hope for full legislature support.