Bill > S04949

This bill establishes the New York State Volunteer Fire Protection Emergency Reimbursement Account, a special fund designed to support volunteer fire and emergency medical services during the COVID-19 pandemic. The account will receive funds from tax revenues and will be jointly managed by the state comptroller and the department of taxation and finance. Specifically, the account will provide reimbursements to volunteer fire companies, departments, districts, and not-for-profit emergency medical services for two primary purposes: (1) covering expenses related to purchasing personal protective equipment (such as face shields, masks, respirators, and turnout gear), and (2) compensating for lost revenues resulting from municipal budget cuts or restrictions on public fundraising events during the state of emergency declared on March 7, 2020. To receive reimbursement, organizations must submit an application to the New York State Division of Homeland Security, which may require supporting documentation. The bill is temporary, with provisions set to expire one year after becoming law, reflecting its targeted response to the emergency conditions of the pandemic.

Budget and Finance

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S4949