Bill > S01606

This bill addresses financial support for volunteer firefighters by establishing a reimbursement mechanism for fire districts, departments, and companies that are required to provide enhanced cancer disability benefits. Specifically, the bill allows volunteer fire organizations to apply for annual state reimbursement to cover the costs of insurance policies that meet the requirements of section 205-cc of the general municipal law. The reimbursement will be handled by the office of fire prevention and control, which will create a uniform application process in collaboration with the department of financial services. The amount of reimbursement will be limited to the actual amount spent by each fire district, department, or company in the previous fiscal year on insurance coverage for volunteer firefighter cancer disability benefits. This bill aims to support volunteer firefighters by helping local fire organizations offset the costs of providing specialized insurance coverage that protects these essential first responders who may be at higher risk of cancer due to their occupational exposure to hazardous conditions.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S1606