Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara announced that legislation he helped pass granting volunteer firefighters and emergency medical services (EMS) workers a new property tax exemption benefit has been signed into law (Ch. 670 of 2022).

“During this time of year when severe weather can lead to injuries and even death if timely care is not received, first responders are invaluable to keeping our families safe,” said Santabarbara. “Their actions save lives in emergency situations statewide, especially in upstate rural areas like ours where some live hours away from a hospital. That’s why I’m proud to support our volunteer firefighters and EMS workers and thank them for the countless hours they spend protecting our loved ones. You can be sure I’ll keep fighting to ensure they have the resources they need in the upcoming session.”

The law allows local governments to provide an up to 10% property tax exemption benefit to volunteer firefighters and EMS workers who have served for at least two years. This measure will not only keep money in the pockets of hardworking volunteers but will also inspire more people to serve our community, noted Santabarbara.

This new law builds on Santabarbara’s long record of advocating for our first responders. As Chair of the State Assembly’s Commission on Rural Resources, he previously sponsored and passed legislation creating the New York State Rural Ambulance Task Force to improve the quality and availability of ambulance services in rural areas (Ch. 778 of 2021).