In a major victory for volunteer first responders across New York State, Governor Kathy Hochul signed legislation Saturday that quadruples the state income tax credit for volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers, with Rockland County’s Assemblyman Aron Wieder and Senator Bill Weber both serving as co-sponsors of the measure in their respective legislative chambers.

The legislation, Assembly Bill A.6790-A and Senate Bill S.6233-A, increases the annual personal income tax credit from $200 to $800 for eligible volunteers. Married couples filing jointly, where both spouses qualify as volunteer first responders, will see their combined credit increase from $400 to $1,600.

The increased credit will apply beginning with the 2027 tax year, allowing eligible volunteers to claim the benefit when filing their taxes in 2028.

The legislation represents the first major increase to the credit in nearly two decades, providing additional financial recognition to the thousands of volunteers who respond to emergencies while balancing their careers, family responsibilities, and community commitments.

Assemblyman Aron Wieder, who co-sponsored the legislation in the Assembly and represents the 97th District covering portions of Ramapo and Orangetown, praised the governor’s decision to sign the measure into law.

“I commend Governor Hochul for signing this vital legislation into law,” Wieder said. “Our volunteer first responders are heroes who put their lives on the line every single day to keep our communities safe. For nearly two decades this credit remained unchanged while these volunteers continued to save taxpayers millions.”

Wieder emphasized that the increased credit is not only a financial benefit but also an important tool for strengthening volunteer emergency services.

“Increasing this credit to $800 is not just financial relief — it is recognition, respect, and a powerful tool for recruitment and retention,” Wieder added.

Senator Bill Weber, who co-sponsored the Senate version of the legislation, also welcomed the measure as an important acknowledgment of the sacrifices made by volunteer emergency responders.

Weber said he was proud to co-sponsor the bill, describing the increase as a meaningful step toward recognizing the selfless service and sacrifice of those who serve as volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers.

Governor Hochul, who signed the legislation during an event at the Hempstead Fire Department on Long Island, praised the dedication of volunteer emergency personnel and said the increased credit demonstrates New York’s appreciation for their lifesaving work.

“These brave New Yorkers put their lives on the line to protect their neighbors,” Hochul said, highlighting the personal sacrifices volunteers make to serve their communities.

The new law comes as volunteer fire departments and ambulance organizations across Rockland County and throughout New York continue working to recruit and retain members. The increased financial incentive is expected to provide additional support to the volunteers who help keep communities safe while saving local taxpayers millions of dollars annually.