Bill > S06044

This bill amends the not-for-profit corporation law to exempt the South Onondaga Fire Department from a standard regulation that limits non-resident membership in fire departments to 45% of total membership. Specifically, the bill adds the South Onondaga Fire Department to a list of fire departments that are already exempted from this membership restriction. Currently, fire departments must maintain a membership composition where non-resident members do not exceed 45% of the total membership. However, this bill provides a specific exception for the South Onondaga Fire Department, allowing them more flexibility in recruiting and maintaining volunteer firefighters regardless of their residency status. The provision is part of a broader set of exceptions that recognize the unique challenges some fire departments face in recruiting and retaining volunteer firefighters, particularly in areas where population density or community demographics might make strict residency requirements challenging for maintaining an adequate firefighting force.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S6044