Local lawmakers and firefighters are joining a new push for an old bill to benefit volunteer fire departments.
The bill, known as the “Fair Play" bill, would allow departments who operate their own Emergency Medical Service (EMS) to set fees and charges for their services.
Currently, only certain ambulance services can bill a person’s insurance company under New York State law.
On Saturday, organizers representing the Firemen’s Association of the State of New York, the North Central New York Volunteer Fireman’s Association, and several local departments gathered with elected officials at their annual legislative meeting in Canandaigua. "You need the service," said Chair for North Central Legislative Committee David Violas.
Violas, who has spent years at the Honeoye Fire Department, says carrying that service is getting tougher, especially on rural departments.