Bill > A03109

This bill allows fire districts to appoint fire chiefs and assistant chiefs who are also employees of the fire district, modifying existing town law to remove previous restrictions. The legislation updates multiple sections of town law to explicitly permit district employees to be nominated and appointed to leadership positions within their fire departments. The bill maintains existing requirements that nominees must be members of the fire department and potentially residents of the district, and it preserves provisions that disqualify individuals convicted of arson from serving as chiefs or assistant chiefs. Additionally, the bill clarifies that if a chief or assistant chief is a district employee, the board of fire commissioners will have supervisory authority over their employment-related duties, while the chief still maintains operational control during fire department activities. The changes provide more flexibility for fire districts in selecting leadership, potentially allowing for greater continuity and professional development within fire departments by enabling skilled employees to serve in top leadership roles.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A3109