New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S09136

Introduced
2/5/26  

Caption

Provides annual vehicular access for New York state's active volunteer firefighters and active volunteer ambulance workers and their immediate family at any state park or recreational facility.

Impact

The bill amends the parks, recreation, and historic preservation law to establish a procedure for issuing these annual passes specifically for active volunteers who have achieved service credits under relevant municipal service award programs. By doing so, the legislation not only supports the volunteer workforce that is vital for emergency services but also promotes health and recreation for these individuals and their families. The enactment of this bill may encourage greater participation in volunteer firefighting and ambulance services, knowing they will receive such perks.

Summary

Bill S09136 aims to enhance the benefits provided to active volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers in New York State by granting them annual vehicular access passes to state parks and recreational facilities at no charge. This legislation recognizes the significant contributions of these volunteers to their communities and seeks to offer them a form of recognition and appreciation for their service. The new law, once enacted, will allow active volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers, along with their immediate families, easy access to state-managed recreational areas upon presentation of proof of service.

Conclusion

In conclusion, S09136 represents a positive step towards acknowledging and supporting those who serve as volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers within New York State. By allowing these individuals and their families to access recreational opportunities without charge, the bill not only recognizes their service but may also foster a stronger sense of community involvement and well-being.

Contention

While the bill appears to have broad support for its intent to benefit volunteer emergency responders, some stakeholders may express concerns regarding the financial implications of issuing free access passes. The potential costs to the state for administration and enforcement of this initiative may become points of discussion. Additionally, the implications for park management and any increased traffic or use of the facilities by these groups might need to be assessed.

Companion Bills

NY A02482

Same As Provides annual vehicular access for New York state's active volunteer firefighters and active volunteer ambulance workers and their immediate family at any state park or recreational facility.

Previously Filed As

NY A02482

Provides annual vehicular access for New York state's active volunteer firefighters and active volunteer ambulance workers and their immediate family at any state park or recreational facility.

NY A00516

Increases the volunteer firefighters' and ambulance workers' credit.

NY S05837

Increases the volunteer firefighters' and ambulance workers' credit.

NY S08409

Extends the effectiveness of certain sections of law relating to real property tax exemptions for real property owned by volunteer firefighters and volunteer ambulance workers.

NY A08657

Extends the effectiveness of certain sections of law relating to real property tax exemptions for real property owned by volunteer firefighters and volunteer ambulance workers.

NY A09690

Extends tuition free course benefits to volunteer firefighters or voluntary ambulance workers; authorizes the board of trustees of the state university to regulate the conferral of such benefits.

NY A08755

Provides cancer screening and treatment for retired volunteer firefighters; defines retired volunteer firefighters; retroactively applies to retired volunteer firefighters.

NY A03747

Relates to annual vehicular access for active duty service members; requires annual passes be issued to active duty service members and their immediate families at state parks or recreational facilities upon presentation of a military identification card.

NY S05432

Increases benefits for volunteer firefighters and volunteer ambulance workers.

NY A06410

Increases benefits for volunteer firefighters and volunteer ambulance workers.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.