Assembly passes volunteer firefighter tax credit increase

ALBANY | Assemblyman Matt Simpson (R,C-Adirondack) has voted yes on A.6790, a proposal he co-sponsored that increases the state income tax credit for active volunteer firefighters and volunteer ambulance corps members from $200 to $800 per individual ($1,600 for qualifying joint filers). "Today's passage of A.6790 is a victory for the volunteer first responders who protect our rural communities across the North Country," Simpson said Thursday. "Our volunteer fire departments are in desperate need of more members. Without stronger incentives like this tax credit, many departments would have no choice but to transition to paid staffing, which would place a massive new financial burden on local municipalities, the state and ultimately the taxpayers who are already struggling. This is a no-brainer. Supporting volunteers strengthens an essential service while helping prevent even greater costs down the road." Simpson highlighted the broader context of New York's ongoing affordability crisis, noting the state has lost nearly one million residents since 2020, largely due to high taxes and an unaffordable climate, as he criticized earlier blocked attempts to push a more substantial credit bill through. "Providing meaningful tax relief to the men and women who answer the call for help is common sense," Simpson continued. "Unfortunately, partisan politics nearly killed this idea entirely. Just weeks ago, the Democratic Majority was ready to shelve the entire concept when they blocked the stronger $2,500 tax credit proposal in A.1064. Only after facing serious backlash from frustrated first responders and communities statewide did they rush out their own diluted version. This is yet another glaring example of single-party politics failing the people of New York." In a predominantly partisan vote, Democrats voted not to advance the original proposal of a $2,500 tax credit just a few weeks ago, he said. "We have a Majority that consistently puts party loyalty ahead of practical solutions for working families and public safety. At least our volunteers are finally getting something, but they deserve far better than these political games," Simpson said. Simpson, who voted in favor of A.6790, pledged to continue fighting for stronger support for volunteer emergency services and policies that make New York more affordable.

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Assembly passes volunteer firefighter tax credit increase

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