New York State Fire Service Alliance Government Affairs Update

By Todd Vandervort
The Vandervort Group, LLC
 
On March 25, 2025, the New York State Association of Fire Chiefs, Association of Fire Districts of the State of New York, County Fire Coordinators’ Association of the State of New York, New York State Fire Marshals and Inspectors Association, and the Long Island legislative group convened at the state Capitol for their annual Advocacy Day.
 
Throughout the day, these organizations held bipartisan meetings with legislators from across the state to promote their shared legislative agenda, known as the Issues of United Concern. The event concluded with a visit from Governor Kathy Hochul, who reaffirmed her commitment to supporting the fire service. The engagement and dedication of lawmakers such as Senators Monica Martinez and Shelley Mayer and Assemblymembers Steven Otis and Billy Jones, among others, played a pivotal role in the progress achieved during the day.
 
As a result, two key legislative victories were achieved in the final New York State Budget – a 5-year extension of EMS cost recovery through 2031, ensuring the continuation and growth of this vital billing program, and the inclusion of a future ban on potentially harmful PFAS chemicals in new firefighter turnout gear.
 
While additional legislative goals remain, these accomplishments underscore the effectiveness of unified advocacy. The collective efforts of fire service organizations and the engagement of individual members with their legislators were instrumental in these successes. Although challenges persist, speaking with a unified voice has proven powerful.
 
Continued collaboration is essential to secure passage of remaining priorities, particularly the designation of EMS as an essential service, before the legislative session concludes on June 12.
 
Thank you to everyone involved – let’s maintain our momentum and finish the work ahead.