STATEMENT FROM FASNY SECRETARY JOHN D’ALESSANDRO

“The volunteer fire service in New York is not in disarray. Alarmist rhetoric diminishes the commitment of the more than 80,000 volunteers who answer the call every day — and it is disrespectful to the State, which has been a true partner in advancing real solutions for volunteer firefighters across New York.

“There is more work to be done to strengthen our emergency response network. FASNY remains committed to developing practical, holistic solutions that truly address the challenge. We have worked side by side with the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services and participated in the State’s volunteer recruitment and retention task force to implement data-driven reforms — including enhanced training access and a training stipend to help offset the burden of required training. 

“Nominal compensation is one tool — it is not the entire toolbox. FASNY supports nominal compensation provided there is meaningful state fiscal participation, and it is part of a comprehensive, statewide strategy to improve recruitment and retention.

“State partnership is essential to ensure equity. Compensation cannot depend solely on a department’s zip code or local tax base. We are advocating targeted state resources that allow qualifying, under-resourced departments to level the playing field with neighboring jurisdictions that already have the means to offer incentives.

“Beyond nominal compensation, our 14-point plan includes expanding tax incentives, enhancing tuition assistance, providing housing affordability and modernizing training delivery systems — reforms that address both recruitment and long-term retention.

“FASNY will continue working collaboratively with the State to build on the progress we have achieved and to ensure New York’s volunteer fire service remains strong for the communities we serve.”