Legislative Update: NY Volunteer Tax Credit Approval

Legislation to increase the NYS volunteer tax credit from $200 t0 $800 was passed by both the NYS Senate and Assembly earlier this week. The next and last step in the legislative process is for the Legislature to forward the bill to Governor Hochul for signature into law.

NYSVARA is grateful to the members of the New York State legislature for recognizing the tremendous dedication of EMS and fire volunteers and taking this major step to support recruitment and retention. NYSVARA has sent the Governor's Office a letter of support for the bill's enactment. 

The legislation -- https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A6790/amendment/A -- would allow a volunteer to receive the NYS tax credit and also receive the partial local property tax exemption that can be offered by local school districts and municipalities. Currently a volunteer must choose either the tax credit or the tax exemption.

 The bill specifies the law will take effect for taxable years beginning on or after January 1, 2026.

 The $800 tax credit is a meaningful economic contribution to a volunteer EMS clinician regardless of home ownership. For a volunteer that owns a home the economic contribution is magnified with the ability to simultaneously access both the tax credit and a tax exemption. NYSVARA continues to strongly support community-based efforts to encourage adoption of the 10% local tax exemption for volunteer EMS and fire responders.

We are hopeful that the Governor will promptly sign this legislation into law so volunteer EMS and fire responders will be able to access the expanded tax credit for the current year. If you have any questions, please contact Legislative and Government Affairs Chairperson Steve Kroll at legislation@nysvara.org.

Steven Kroll, Chair

Legislative and Government Affairs Committee

NYS Volunteer Ambulance & Rescue Association

legislation@nysvara.org