New York Assembly Bill A07918

New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/11/25
• Refer: 4/11/25
• Report Pass: 6/5/25
• Refer: 6/5/25
• Report Pass: 6/6/25
• Refer: 6/6/25
• Report Pass: 6/17/25
• Refer: 3/27/25
• Engrossed: 6/10/25
• Refer: 6/10/25
• Engrossed: 6/17/25

Caption

Relates to the membership and purposes of the Volunteer and Exempt Firemen's Benevolent Association of Coldenham Inc.; changes the name of the association to the "Volunteer and Exempt Firefighter's Benevolent Association of Coldenham, Inc"; updates the purposes of such association and the use of taxes received by such association.

Impact

This bill has implications for state laws that govern volunteer firefighter associations and their ability to use funds generated from foreign fire insurance premium taxes. It establishes that these taxes are to be strictly designated for targeted purposes beneficial to members of the association and their families. This focus on creating specific goals and uses for the funds aims to ensure that the tax revenues are effectively utilized for the welfare and support of volunteer firefighters, which could strengthen volunteer services throughout the state.

Summary

Bill A07918 amends sections of a prior law concerning the incorporation of the Volunteer and Exempt Firefighter's Benevolent Association of Coldenham, Inc. Key changes include a shift in focus from simply benefiting volunteer firemen to explicitly including 'firefighters', thereby modernizing the terminology to be more inclusive. The bill reiterates the roles and responsibilities of the association and clarifies its purposes, which include providing relief, aid, and assistance to its volunteer members and their families, especially in case of injury or being indigent due to their service commitments.

Contention

An area of potential contention may arise from the interpretation of how the amendments specifically impact the distribution and use of foreign fire insurance premium taxes. Some stakeholders might voice concerns about government oversight and the restriction on how these funds can be used. Additionally, the broader implications for non-profit organizations and their financial regulations could also spark debate among lawmakers, especially regarding transparency and accountability within the benevolent association's operations.