New York Assembly Bill A10051

New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/30/26
• Refer: 1/30/26

Caption

Establishes the Clarence Center Volunteer Exempt Firefighter's Benevolent Association; provides for eligibility of membership, purpose, powers and duties, organization meeting and by-laws, the control and disposal of funds and property and the precept for payment of foreign fire insurance premium taxes.

Impact

This legislation is significant as it sets a legal framework for the formation of a benevolent association dedicated to the welfare of volunteer firefighters. The association's purposes include providing relief and aid to members who are indigent, disabled, or injured in the performance of their duties and fostering social and recreational activities to enhance morale. The establishment of this association could raise awareness about the challenges faced by volunteer firefighters and promote community engagement in supporting these vital public servants.

Summary

Bill A10051 establishes the Clarence Center Volunteer Exempt Firefighter's Benevolent Association in New York, aimed at providing support and relief to volunteer firefighters in the Clarence Center area. The association will be comprised of active volunteer members of the Clarence Center Volunteer Fire Company who have achieved exempt status per municipal law. The bill defines the eligibility for membership, specifically excluding paid firefighters and those who have been removed or expelled from the fire company.

Contention

There may be points of contention surrounding the bill, especially regarding the funding and operational independence of the association from local government oversight. Critics could argue that creating a separate association might lead to governance challenges and potential conflicts of interest in how funds are managed. Additionally, the bill stipulates that the association will have authority over its funds, which raises questions about transparency and accountability to the community it serves.