New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A05221

Introduced
2/12/25  
Refer
2/12/25  

Caption

Provides a state income tax exemption for volunteer firefighters and volunteer ambulance workers who have qualifying service in the taxable year for which such exemption is sought.

Summary

Bill A05221 proposes to amend the New York tax law to provide a state income tax exemption for volunteer firefighters and volunteer ambulance workers. The exemption applies to residents who have qualifying service in the taxable year for which the exemption is claimed, specifically those who have been members in good standing for at least one year, completed required training, and attended a minimum percentage of activities for their respective organizations. The bill aims to recognize and support the contributions of these volunteers by alleviating their tax burden.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would create a new subsection in the New York tax law that exempts certain income from taxation for volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers. This change would specifically affect the tax liabilities of individuals who meet the defined criteria for qualifying service, potentially leading to increased financial support for these essential community members. The bill would take effect for taxable years beginning on or after January 1, 2026, thereby impacting future tax filings.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding Bill A05221 appears to be positive, with support for recognizing the efforts of volunteer emergency service personnel. However, there may be concerns regarding the fiscal implications of the tax exemption on state revenue, which could lead to discussions in committee and among stakeholders about the balance between supporting volunteers and maintaining state funding.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise regarding the potential financial impact of the tax exemption on state revenue, as well as the criteria for qualifying service. Some lawmakers may argue that while supporting volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers is crucial, the exemption could lead to significant revenue losses for the state. Others may advocate for broader support measures or additional funding for emergency services instead of tax exemptions.

Companion Bills

NY S00298

Same As Provides a state income tax exemption for volunteer firefighters and volunteer ambulance workers who have qualifying service in the taxable year for which such exemption is sought.

Previously Filed As

NY S00324

Provides a state income tax exemption for volunteer firefighters and volunteer ambulance workers who have qualifying service in the taxable year for which such exemption is sought.

NY S00298

Provides a state income tax exemption for volunteer firefighters and volunteer ambulance workers who have qualifying service in the taxable year for which such exemption is sought.

NY A08657

Extends the effectiveness of certain sections of law relating to real property tax exemptions for real property owned by volunteer firefighters and volunteer ambulance workers.

NY S08409

Extends the effectiveness of certain sections of law relating to real property tax exemptions for real property owned by volunteer firefighters and volunteer ambulance workers.

NY A00516

Increases the volunteer firefighters' and ambulance workers' credit.

NY S05837

Increases the volunteer firefighters' and ambulance workers' credit.

NY A09339

Provides an exemption from real property taxes for real property owned by an incorporated association of present or former volunteer firefighters, an incorporated volunteer fire company or fire department which is leased to an ambulance company exclusively used and occupied by such ambulance company for ambulance purposes.

NY S06233

Provides that for taxable years beginning on and after January first, two thousand twenty-six, a resident taxpayer who serves as an active volunteer firefighter or as a volunteer ambulance worker shall be allowed a credit against the tax imposed equal to eight hundred dollars; provides for a real property tax exemption under certain circumstances to an enrolled member of an incorporated volunteer fire company, fire department or incorporated voluntary ambulance service residing in such city, village, town, school district, special district, fire district or county.

NY A06790

Provides that for taxable years beginning on and after January first, two thousand twenty-six, a resident taxpayer who serves as an active volunteer firefighter or as a volunteer ambulance worker shall be allowed a credit against the tax imposed equal to eight hundred dollars; provides for a real property tax exemption under certain circumstances to an enrolled member of an incorporated volunteer fire company, fire department or incorporated voluntary ambulance service residing in such city, village, town, school district, special district, fire district or county.

NY S09136

Provides annual vehicular access for New York state's active volunteer firefighters and active volunteer ambulance workers and their immediate family at any state park or recreational facility.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.