Provides that each fire district, department or company required to provide enhanced cancer disability benefits for volunteer fire fighters pursuant to section two hundred five-cc of the general municipal law shall be entitled to reimbursement by the state for payments made in order to obtain the insurance coverage necessary to satisfy the requirements of section two hundred five-cc of the general municipal law.
Summary
Bill A07432 amends the general municipal law to provide that fire districts, departments, or companies that are required to offer enhanced cancer disability benefits to volunteer firefighters are entitled to reimbursement from the state for the costs incurred in obtaining the necessary insurance coverage. This reimbursement process is intended to alleviate the financial burden on these entities while ensuring that volunteer firefighters receive the benefits mandated by law.
Impact
The bill will impact state laws by establishing a reimbursement mechanism for fire districts and departments that comply with the enhanced cancer disability benefits requirement. It introduces a new section (205-ccc) to the general municipal law, which mandates the state to reimburse these entities based on their prior fiscal year's insurance expenses. This could lead to increased financial support for volunteer fire services across New York State, potentially improving the recruitment and retention of volunteer firefighters.
Sentiment
The sentiment around the bill appears to be supportive among those who recognize the importance of providing adequate benefits to volunteer firefighters. However, there may be concerns regarding the financial implications for the state budget and the administrative burden of processing reimbursement applications, which could lead to some opposition.
Contention
Notable points of contention may arise from concerns about the financial impact on the state budget, particularly in the context of ongoing fiscal challenges. Some legislators may argue that while the benefits for firefighters are essential, the state should carefully consider the sustainability of funding such reimbursements. Additionally, there may be discussions regarding the efficiency of the application and reimbursement process, which could affect how quickly fire districts receive support.
Same As
Provides that each fire district, department or company required to provide enhanced cancer disability benefits for volunteer fire fighters pursuant to section two hundred five-cc of the general municipal law shall be entitled to reimbursement by the state for payments made in order to obtain the insurance coverage necessary to satisfy the requirements of section two hundred five-cc of the general municipal law.
Provides that each fire district, department or company required to provide enhanced cancer disability benefits for volunteer fire fighters pursuant to section two hundred five-cc of the general municipal law shall be entitled to reimbursement by the state for payments made in order to obtain the insurance coverage necessary to satisfy the requirements of section two hundred five-cc of the general municipal law.