ALBANY, New York (WWNY) – A new law out of Albany could mean hundreds of dollars back in the pockets of North Country volunteer firefighters, though fire officials question whether it is enough to address recruitment challenges.
New York state is quadrupling the tax credit for volunteer firefighters.
Oxbow Fire Department Chief Anne Potter said long-time volunteers will appreciate the tax credit, which increases from $200 to $800 for individuals. A married couple can both receive the tax credit, adding up to $1,600 a year.
“I think it’s a nice initiative from the state. I think they’re starting to realize that there’s volunteers that work really hard out here in the communities,” Potter said.
“For years and years and years, you know, the gas, the travel, the time, it’s kind of showing us that there’s appreciation,” she added.
Officials question if credit is enough
The question that still needs to be answered is whether the $800 tax credit will be enough to convince more volunteers to join, or whether the state needs to do more.
Warren Day, of the Town of Watertown Fire Department, said the increase helps but may not fully solve the problem.
“It’s kind of putting a band-aid on the situation. I mean, it’s always a help to be able to get more, but the $200 incentive that it is right now hasn’t really helped with recruitment or retention. And we’re hoping that the $800 might help a little bit more,” Day said.
“I think the state – you’re heading in the right direction. I think you need to see us more. You need to see the volunteer departments and what we’re doing,” Potter said.
Day said additional compensation for volunteers might still be needed.
“A nominal compensation package, to where when a volunteer responds, they can get a nominal fee, and some places are able to like $5, $10 a call,” Day said.
The tax credit will go into effect in the 2027 tax year.
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