A legislation introduced by State Sen. Todd Kaminsky that protects the benefits of volunteer firefighters and emergency medical personnel was signed into law by Gov. Cuomo.
The bill was passed by state assembly and senate on May 27 and was signed by Cuomo on June 18. The bill was co-sponsored by Kaminsky, who represents many South Shore volunteer fire departments and Assemblyman Fred Thiele (I-Sag Harbor), will protect the Length of Service Award Program. The program provides pension benefits to volunteer firefighters who reach certain milestones. “Throughout this pandemic, our brave volunteer firefighters and emergency medical responders have been on the front lines day in and day out, protecting our communities while risking their lives to save ours,” Kaminsky said. “Now our volunteer firefighters and EMTs across the state who have been forced to stay home will have their benefits protected.