Republican caucus led effort to provide the tax breaks
The Erie County Legislature’s Minority Caucus says today’s signing of the law providing tax exemptions for volunteer first responders is the final step in a process they started in January. That was when Erie County Legislators John Mills, Frank Todaro, Chris Greene and Jim Malczewski put forward legislation that would give tax breaks to volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers.
“I’m pleased that the legislation I introduced several months ago has now become law. This will establish a property tax exemption of up to ten percent of the assessed value of their primary residence for volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers,” said Erie County Legislator Jim Malczewski, sponsor of the law. “We will continue to look for ways to provide relief as volunteer companies struggle with recruitment and retention.”
Requirements in the law were set by New York State. Members must serve a minimum of two years to be eligible and live in the community that is served by the district.
“I’m grateful for the incredible response we received from the many volunteer fire companies. It was important to them, and of course to us, to get this done,” said Minority Leader and Erie County Legislator John Mills.
“We will continue to fight for our volunteer first responders. They show us time and again how important they are to our community. This is a start, and hopefully this will help make a difference in attracting members,” said Erie County Legislator Frank Todaro.
The proposed law passed unanimously in the Erie County Legislature last month. The Administration signed the legislation today. Members say they hope Albany will revise the law to expand eligibility to volunteers serving outside their district.
“It also provides a lifetime exemption benefit if the volunteer achieves 20 years of service. That benefit is extended to spouses of deceased members. This is a positive step as we keep looking for ways to help our volunteers,” said Erie County Legislator Chris Greene.