Proposed NJ bill aims to create tax incentive for volunteer firefighters
LONG HILL TOWNSHIP, N.J. (PIX11) — At his volunteer fire company in Morris County, Chief Al Gallo only wants members who are willing to serve.
“Somebody that wants to help the community, motivation,” said Gallo. “Willing to train, willing to help out. Just somebody who is willing to be with a group of people that give back to the community.”
New Jersey school aid bill signed into law
The problem at Stirling Fire Company and fire companies across New Jersey is finding those people.
“It’s a struggle,” said Gallo. “The training’s gotten more involved, more hours. It’s a big thing because of the dedication and time to get the training done.”
A new bi-partisan bill in Trenton looks to help turn those tides by offering volunteers a $2,000 tax exemption. If passed, it would apply to certain volunteer firefighters, rescue, and first aid squad members in effort to discover more community heroes.
“Volunteerism is dying unfortunately at this moment,” said State Senator Vin Gopal (D-11th District), who served for many years as a medical first responder in Monmouth County.
Along with State Senator Kristin Corrado, he’s hoping to address the volunteer shortages plaguing New Jersey towns. “I hate to use the word ‘incentivize’ because folks don’t need incentive to do this,” said Gopal. “They love their community and that’s why they do this. But I think a couple of perks to help with it could make it a little more attractive.”
Hundreds rallying to save beloved East Brunswick educator’s job
“Volunteers work holidays, they work nights, they work weekends,” said Corrado (R-40th District). “They work year-round and they’re always there when we need them.”
It’s a vocation that is not for everyone, but Gallo hopes it will lead some to discover if it’s for them. “I think it’ll be an additional bonus for people to sign up and give it a try at least.”
Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11.
