New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S02658

Introduced
1/22/25  
Refer
1/22/25  

Caption

Relates to the establishment of special districts for general ambulance services; requires a report on issues of volunteer firefighter and ambulance services staffing.

Summary

Bill S02658 proposes amendments to the general municipal law to establish special districts for the financing and operation of general ambulance services. This allows counties, cities, towns, or villages to create such districts individually or jointly, following the procedures for establishing fire districts. Additionally, the bill mandates a report from the commissioner on the staffing of volunteer firefighter and ambulance services in New York, focusing on recruitment and retention challenges, particularly in rural areas and those with geographic difficulties.

Impact

If enacted, this bill will enable local governments to create special districts specifically for ambulance services, potentially improving emergency response capabilities across New York. It will also require a comprehensive evaluation of volunteer staffing issues, which may lead to legislative or policy changes aimed at enhancing the effectiveness and sustainability of these critical services.

Sentiment

The general sentiment around Bill S02658 appears to be supportive, as it addresses significant issues related to emergency services and volunteer staffing. However, without specific voting history or committee discussions available, it is difficult to gauge any opposition or concerns that may have been raised during deliberations.

Contention

While the bill seems to have broad support for its objectives, potential points of contention could arise regarding the funding mechanisms for these special districts and the implications for existing local districts. Stakeholders may have differing views on the effectiveness of the proposed solutions for volunteer staffing challenges.

Companion Bills

NY A03432

Same As Relates to the establishment of special districts for general ambulance services; requires a report on issues of volunteer firefighter and ambulance services staffing.

NY A10368

Same As Relates to special districts for ambulance services and to volunteer firefighter and ambulance services staffing

Previously Filed As

NY A10368

Relates to the establishment of special districts for general ambulance services; requires a report on issues of volunteer firefighter and ambulance services staffing.

NY A09337

Relates to the establishment of special districts for general ambulance services in any county, city, town or village located within the Adirondack park; requires a report on issues of volunteer firefighter and ambulance services staffing.

NY S03039

Relates to the establishment of special districts for general ambulance services; requires a report on issues of volunteer firefighter and ambulance services staffing.

NY A02812

Relates to the establishment of special districts for general ambulance services; requires a report on issues of volunteer firefighter and ambulance services staffing.

NY A03432

Relates to the establishment of special districts for general ambulance services; requires a report on issues of volunteer firefighter and ambulance services staffing.

NY A02419

Relates to the establishment of special districts for general ambulance services in any county, city, town or village located within the Adirondack park; requires a report on issues of volunteer firefighter and ambulance services staffing.

NY A03672

Relates to the establishment of special districts for general ambulance services in any county, city, town or village located within the Adirondack park; requires a report on issues of volunteer firefighter and ambulance services staffing.

NY A00516

Increases the volunteer firefighters' and ambulance workers' credit.

NY S05837

Increases the volunteer firefighters' and ambulance workers' credit.

NY HB1339

Licensed ambulance services exempt from formation of rural ambulance service district requirements.

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