NY A02318

Expands background check requirements for volunteer firefighter applicants to include convictions requiring registration as a sex offender under Article 6-C of the Correction Law, in addition to existing arson conviction checks.

Requires fire company chiefs to search applicant records within ten business days and communicate results in writing within ten business days, with no fees charged to applicants or fire companies.

Mandates fire companies to determine eligibility of applicants with sex offense convictions in accordance with Correction Law sections 752 and 753.

Requires applicants denied membership based on sex offense convictions be provided notice of appeal rights, a copy of their criminal history record, and copies of the applicable Correction Law sections.

Takes effect 120 days after enactment and applies to volunteer firefighters in fire companies, town fire departments, village fire departments, and fire corporations throughout New York State.