New York lawmakers are pushing a bill to expand tax incentives for volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers, according to Spectrum News. The proposal would allow volunteers to claim both property and state income tax credits, instead of being forced to choose between them.
State Sen. April Baskin, who introduced the legislation, says the change could help address the sharp decline in volunteer numbers — a drop of 40,000 over the last two decades. Baskin emphasized the importance of making volunteer service more attractive to rebuild the ranks.
The bill is not part of the current budget talks but Baskin is hopeful it will pass before the legislative session ends.
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